A classic old-fashioned wilted lettuce salad with hot bacon dressing made from bacon grease, vinegar, and sugar. This nostalgic side dish features tender leaf lettuce wilted by a warm, tangy-sweet dressing.
Ingredients
- 4-6 slices bacon chopped into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 4-6 cups fresh leaf lettuce washed and dried
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2-3 green onions chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cut bacon into small bite-sized pieces. Cook in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy and golden brown. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, but keep the bacon grease in the pan.
- With the skillet still containing the hot bacon grease, add the granulated sugar. Whisk constantly until the sugar completely dissolves into the grease.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Carefully pour in the white vinegar while whisking continuously. Be cautious as this will create a strong vinegar steam that may irritate your nose and eyes.
- Place the clean, dried lettuce leaves in a large serving bowl. Immediately pour the hot bacon dressing over the lettuce while it's still warm. Toss quickly and thoroughly to coat all leaves.
- Add the crispy bacon pieces back to the salad if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add chopped green onions if using. Serve immediately while warm, as the lettuce will continue to wilt if left sitting.