Warm salad with potatoes and bacon

A warm salad with potatoes and bacon is a hearty and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of crispy bacon with tender potatoes and fresh greens. It's perfect as a side dish or a light main course. Here’s a delicious recipe to make this comforting salad:

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 pound (450g) baby potatoes or new potatoes, halved
• 6 slices bacon, diced
• 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or romaine)
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley or chives, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or balsamic vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

1. Cook the Potatoes:

   • Place the halved baby potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.

2. Drain and Cool:

   • Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.

2. Cook the Bacon:

1. Cook the Bacon:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Leave a little bit of bacon fat in the pan for flavor.

3. Prepare the Dressing:

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

4. Assemble the Salad:

1. Combine Potatoes and Bacon:

   • In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the cooked potatoes and toss to coat in the bacon fat. Heat over medium heat until the potatoes are slightly crispy and warm.

2. Combine with Greens:

   • In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, warm potatoes, crispy bacon, and thinly sliced red onion.

3. Add Dressing:

   • Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.

4. Add Fresh Herbs and Cheese:

   • Sprinkle the fresh parsley or chives and crumbled feta cheese over the top, if using.

5. Serve:

1. Serve Warm:
   • Serve the salad immediately while the potatoes are still warm.

Tips:

• Potato Variations: You can use other types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Greens: Choose sturdy greens that can hold up to the warmth of the potatoes, such as arugula or spinach.
• Additions: Feel free to add other ingredients like roasted peppers, olives, or avocado for extra flavor and texture.

Enjoy your warm salad with potatoes and bacon—a delightful blend of crispy, savory, and fresh elements that make for a satisfying meal!