The Weeping Salad, a unique and intriguing dish originating from New Zealand, is a delightful addition to any meal, especially fitting for those seeking a healthy, low-cholesterol option that can be prepared swiftly on a weeknight and conveniently stored in the refrigerator for under 4 hours. This recipe combines the freshness of lettuce and English peas with the savory richness of Swiss cheese and bacon, all brought together by the natural juiciness of red onions enhanced by a touch of sugar.
Ingredients:
Let’s start by gathering our ingredients:
- 1 head of lettuce
- Mayonnaise (enough to cover)
- 1 red onion
- Sugar (to sprinkle)
- English peas
- Swiss cheese (sliced or grated)
- Bacon (crumbled)
Nutritional Information:
Before diving into the preparation, it’s beneficial to know the nutritional content of this salad. Each serving provides approximately 97.4 calories, with 4.1 grams of fat (1.3 grams of which are saturated), 5.8 milligrams of cholesterol, 86.7 milligrams of sodium, 10.9 grams of carbohydrates (including 3.7 grams of fiber and 4.2 grams of sugar), and 4.8 grams of protein. These values ensure a balanced and satisfying addition to your meal.
Preparation Time:
The preparation of the Weeping Salad is relatively quick, with only 20 minutes needed for prep and a total of 2 hours and 20 minutes, including chilling time. This allows you to engage in other activities while the flavors meld together in the refrigerator.
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Lettuce:
Tear the head of lettuce into small, bite-sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl. This forms the crisp and fresh base of the salad. -
Layer with Mayonnaise:
Spread a generous amount of mayonnaise over the lettuce, ensuring it covers the surface evenly. This step forms the creamy foundation that binds the salad together. -
Add Red Onions:
Slice the red onion thinly and layer a few slices over the mayonnaise-covered lettuce. The onions add a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the richness of the other ingredients. -
Sprinkle with Sugar:
Lightly sprinkle sugar over the layer of red onions. This addition may seem unconventional but plays a crucial role in the salad’s unique character by drawing out the natural juices of the onions. -
Layer with English Peas and Swiss Cheese:
Distribute a layer of English peas over the onions. Next, add small slices or grated Swiss cheese on top. These ingredients contribute both texture and savory depth to the salad. -
Repeat Layers:
Continue layering the ingredients in the same order until you have used up all the lettuce, onions, peas, cheese, and bacon (which will be added later). This step ensures that each bite of the salad is balanced and flavorful. -
Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad bowl with foil or a light cover and refrigerate it for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. This chilling period is crucial as it allows the sugar to work its magic on the onions, causing them to “weep” and release their flavorful juices, which mix with the mayonnaise to create a unique, natural dressing. -
Final Touch:
Just before serving, sprinkle the top of the salad with crumbled bacon. This adds a crispy, smoky element that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing and tender vegetables. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Present the Weeping Salad chilled and ready to be enjoyed. The combination of textures and flavors will surely delight your taste buds and make for a memorable addition to any meal.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Weeping Salad is not just a dish but an experience in contrasts and creativity. From the crisp freshness of lettuce to the savory richness of bacon, each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The addition of sugar to the onions transforms this salad into something truly special, where natural juices meld with creamy mayonnaise to form a dressing that’s both unique and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish or a light meal option, the Weeping Salad from Love with Recipes is sure to impress with its simplicity and deliciousness.
