| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 180 | 13g | 3g | 8g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 3g | 7g | 0.6g |
There’s something magical about bringing together simplicity and complexity in one dish, and that’s exactly why I love this recipe for Chicory Salad with Hot Bacon Dressing. As a Louisiana native with French roots, I’ve always been fascinated by how different flavors and textures can harmonize to create something truly exceptional. This chicory salad does just that—it offers a delightful mix of crisp greens, tender hard-boiled eggs, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all brought together by the warmth and savoriness of a hot bacon dressing.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
One of the reasons I adore this recipe is how it manages to be both elaborate and straightforward. Chicory, also known as curly endive, offers a slightly bitter taste that pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy hot bacon dressing. The smoky bacon and apple cider vinegar perfectly balance the chicory’s bitterness, creating a dish that dances on your taste buds. Every bite of this Chicory Salad with Hot Bacon Dressing is a delightful journey, marrying simple ingredients in a remarkable way.
Health Benefits
Aside from being delectable, this salad is surprisingly nutritious. Chicory is known for its digestive benefits, thanks to its high content of inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber. Bacon often gets a bad rep, but when used in moderation, it adds essential protein and can be part of a balanced diet. The apple cider vinegar not only adds a zesty flavor but has been linked to various health benefits, including regulating blood sugar levels and improving heart health. Pair that with the antioxidants from cherry tomatoes and the protein-packed hard-boiled eggs, and you’ve got a salad that’s both delicious and good for you.
A Versatile Addition to Your Menu
This salad is akin to other classic warm salads like spinach salad with warm bacon dressing, but with a unique twist. It can be enjoyed as a light lunch on its own or served as a side dish. For a truly balanced meal, pair it with a hearty French onion soup or a succulent roast chicken. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply whipping up a weeknight meal, this recipe will leave an unforgettable impression.
From the crunch of the walnuts (if you opt to add them) to the creamy richness of the hard-boiled eggs, every element has its own special role in making this salad so irresistible. This recipe is a beautiful illustration of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. Bon appétit!
What You’ll Need
- 1 head of chicory (curly endive), washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Method
Step One
In a large salad bowl, combine the washed and torn chicory leaves, sliced hard-boiled eggs, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped walnuts if using. Set aside.
Step Two
In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the skillet.
Step Three
Add the diced red onion to the skillet with the bacon drippings and cook until the onion is softened, about 2-3 minutes.
Step Four
Carefully add the apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is heated through.
Step Five
Pour the hot bacon dressing over the salad in the bowl, and toss to combine.
Step Six
Top the salad with the crispy bacon pieces and serve immediately.
