The Best Lexingtonian House Salad is a beloved dish that embodies the essence of Southern comfort food with its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Originating from Malone’s, a renowned restaurant in Lexington, Kentucky, this salad has become a staple for locals and visitors alike. It features a delightful combination of crisp romaine and iceberg lettuce, savory crumbled bacon, and juicy diced tomatoes, all tossed together to create a refreshing and satisfying meal.
What sets this salad apart is its creamy homemade dressing, which combines sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk, and a ranch dip mix, resulting in a rich and tangy flavor profile that perfectly complements the fresh vegetables. The addition of dry mustard enhances the dressing’s depth, making each bite an explosion of taste. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile; it can serve as a light lunch or an accompaniment to a hearty dinner.
In just about 20 minutes, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser that appeals to both salad enthusiasts and those who may be less inclined to enjoy greens. Whether served at a family gathering or as part of a casual weeknight dinner, the Best Lexingtonian House Salad promises to deliver a burst of flavor and a touch of Southern charm to your table. Join us in exploring this iconic recipe that celebrates the culinary heritage of Lexington!
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
Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, turning occasionally.
Alternatively, bake bacon in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes for a hands-off approach.
Once cooked, transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
2. Prepare the Salad Base
Combine 2-3 cups of romaine and iceberg lettuce mix and 1.5 ounces of diced tomatoes in a large mixing bowl.
Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
3. Make the Homemade Ranch Dressing
In a separate bowl, combine 1 (16-ounce) container of sour cream, 1 packet of ranch dip mix, and 1/8 teaspoon of dry mustard.
Add 2 cups of mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of buttermilk, and 1/2 cup of whole milk to the mixture.
Whisk together until the dressing is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Combine Salad and Dressing
Pour the homemade ranch dressing over the salad mixture.
Use tongs or salad servers to toss the salad thoroughly, ensuring every leaf is coated with the creamy dressing.
5. Add the Crumbled Bacon
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the top of the salad.
Toss gently to incorporate the bacon throughout the salad.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the salad to serving bowls or plates.
For an extra touch, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Lexingtonian House Salad!