Description

The Lexingtonian House Salad is a classic dish that combines crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and savory bacon with a creamy homemade ranch dressing. Perfect for any occasion, this salad is simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or as a refreshing side dish for a hearty meal.

Ingredients

• For the Salad:
• 4 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
• 2–3 cups romaine and iceberg lettuce mix
• 1.5 ounces diced tomatoes
• For the Dressing:
• 1 (16-ounce) container sour cream
• 1 packet ranch dip mix
• 1/8 teaspoon dry mustard
• 2 cups mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup whole milk

Preparation Method

Prepare the Bacon
Cook the bacon until it is crispy and golden brown. You can use a skillet over medium heat, flipping often, or bake it in the oven for a more hands-off approach. Once done, place the bacon on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. After cooling, crumble the bacon into small bits and set aside.

Assemble the Salad Base
In a large bowl, combine the romaine and iceberg lettuce mix with the diced tomatoes. Toss gently to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a balanced bite every time.

Make the Creamy Ranch Dressing
In a separate medium bowl, combine the sour cream, ranch dip mix, dry mustard, mayonnaise, buttermilk, and whole milk. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning, if needed, to suit your preference.

Dress the Salad
Pour the creamy ranch dressing over the salad base. Toss the greens and tomatoes gently using salad tongs or forks, ensuring the dressing coats every leaf and tomato evenly.

Top with Bacon Bits
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the dressed salad. The bacon adds a satisfying crunch and a savory, smoky flavor that complements the creamy dressing and fresh vegetables.

Serve and Enjoy
Portion the salad into serving bowls or plates and serve immediately. For an extra touch, drizzle with a bit of olive oil or sprinkle freshly ground black pepper on top before serving.

Tips and Conclusion

Extra Toppings: Add shredded cheddar cheese, croutons, or sliced red onions for added texture and flavor.
Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing and bacon ahead of time. Store the dressing in the fridge and assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
Healthier Options: Swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or use low-fat sour cream and milk for a lighter version.
Custom Greens: Substitute or add spinach, arugula, or mixed greens for a more varied base.

This Best Lexingtonian House Salad is a testament to the magic of simplicity. With its creamy dressing, crunchy bacon, and fresh vegetables, it’s a versatile dish that can stand alone or accompany any meal. Love this recipe? Explore more salad ideas and dressings on our site to keep your culinary creativity flowing!