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Classic Southern Salad Recipe

4.7 from 108 reviews

A refreshing Classic Southern Salad featuring crisp romaine, juicy grape tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, boiled eggs, shredded cheddar, croutons, and smoky bacon bits, all brought together with a creamy and tangy homemade buttermilk dressing.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 romaine hearts, chopped
  • 8 ounces grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 English cucumber, diced
  • 3 boiled eggs, sliced
  • 4 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup croutons
  • ½ cup bacon bits

Dressing Ingredients

  • ¾ cup buttermilk, divided
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ cup finely chopped fresh chives
  • 1 garlic clove, pressed
  • ½ teaspoon dried dill
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together ¾ cup buttermilk, sour cream, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, finely chopped chives, pressed garlic clove, dried dill, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Set the dressing aside to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, add the chopped romaine hearts. Top the greens evenly with halved grape tomatoes, diced English cucumber, sliced boiled eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, croutons, and bacon bits.
  3. Toss and Serve: Before serving, toss the salad gently to combine. Drizzle the prepared buttermilk dressing over the top or serve it on the side to allow guests to add to taste.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, use homemade or high-quality croutons.
  • Feel free to substitute bacon bits with cooked, crumbled bacon for fresher taste.
  • Boil eggs ahead of time and refrigerate for convenience.
  • Adjust salt and pepper in the dressing to your taste preferences.
  • This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or as a refreshing side dish.

Keywords: Classic Southern Salad, buttermilk dressing, romaine salad, bacon salad, easy salad recipe, southern cuisine