Take a trip down memory lane with "My Mom's Wilted Lettuce," a nostalgic salad recipe bursting with rustic charm and bold flavors. This comforting classic combines tender fresh leaf lettuce, crisp crumbled bacon, and the subtle sweetness of a warm vinegar-based dressing, made with just the right balance of sugar, salt, and pepper. Elevated by the bright crunch of green onions, this simple dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect quick side dish or light meal. The signature warm dressing, infused with rich bacon grease, gently wilts the lettuce, creating an irresistible blend of textures and flavors. Whether you're recreating a treasured family memory or discovering this Midwestern favorite for the first time, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Serve warm and enjoy a delicious dose of nostalgia!
Scan with your phone to download!
Wash the lettuce thoroughly and dry it using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towels. Tear the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl.
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet, set it on a paper towel-lined plate, and reserve the bacon grease in the skillet.
Crumble the cooked bacon into small pieces and set it aside.
To the skillet with the bacon grease, add the vinegar, sugar, water, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sugar is dissolved and the dressing is warmed through.
Pour the warm dressing over the lettuce in the bowl. Toss gently to coat all the leaves evenly.
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and sliced green onions over the wilted lettuce. Toss lightly again to distribute the toppings.
Serve immediately while the lettuce is still warm and slightly wilted. Enjoy this nostalgic salad as a comforting side dish or quick meal.
Serving size | (578.7g) |
---|
Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
---|---|
Calories | 265.6 |
Total Fat 12.2g | 0% |
Saturated Fat 4.0g | 0% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.0g | |
Cholesterol 31.7mg | 0% |
Sodium 1255.4mg | 0% |
Total Carbohydrate 24.0g | 0% |
Dietary Fiber 6.5g | 0% |
Total Sugars 12.6g | |
Protein 17.5g | 0% |
Vitamin D 5.1IU | 0% |
Calcium 188.1mg | 0% |
Iron 4.8mg | 0% |
Potassium 1120.4mg | 0% |
Source of Calories