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–+ servings
Handwritten recipe for Cauliflower Lettuce Salad
This classic cauliflower and lettuce salad is a retro favorite, combining crisp vegetables with a creamy, tangy-sweet dressing. Popular in the mid-20th century and often found in church cookbooks and potluck gatherings, the dish highlights a simple yet satisfying mix of cauliflower, lettuce, and bacon, elevated by Parmesan cheese and a mayo-sugar dressing. The balance of textures, crunchy, creamy, and savory, makes it a beloved side salad that complements hearty meals or stands alone as a refreshing lunch option.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 382 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 head cauliflower (chopped)
  • 1 head lettuce (torn)
  • 1 onion (medium , thinly sliced)
  • ½ lb bacon (cooked crisp and crumbled)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • ⅓ cups Parmesan cheese (shredded)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

  • Wash and chop the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces
  • Tear the lettuce into small sections
  • Thinly slice the onion

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

  • Fry the bacon until crisp
  • Drain and crumble into small pieces

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

  • In a large bowl, layer lettuce, cauliflower, and onion
  • Top with crumbled bacon and Parmesan cheese

Step 4: Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and sugar
  • Whisk until smooth

Step 5: Final Assembly

  • Pour dressing over salad just before serving
  • Toss lightly if desired, or serve layered

Tips

  • Add cherry tomatoes for color and sweetness.
  • Substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayo to lighten it up.
  • Use sharp white cheddar instead of Parmesan for a different flavor.
  • Add sunflower seeds or almonds for crunch.
  • Use red onion for a milder, sweeter flavor.
  • Try adding diced hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
  • Swap sugar for honey or omit for a tangier dressing.
  • Chill the salad for 1 to 2 hours so flavors blend better.
  • Add peas or broccoli for more vegetables.
  • Make it a meal by adding grilled chicken.

Nutrition

Calories: 382kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 7gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 14gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 33mgSodium: 461mgPotassium: 396mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 38mgCalcium: 84mgIron: 1mg
Keyword bacon, cauliflower, comfort food, creamy salad, heirloom recipe, homemade dressing, potluck, potluck salad, retro salad, vintage recipe
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