Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Family Favorite Salad is a crisp, colorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal or gathering. Packed with fresh vegetables, crunchy toppings, and a tangy-sweet homemade dressing, this salad is beloved for its balance of texture and flavor. It’s simple enough for weeknights and special enough for celebrations.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

romaine lettucecherry tomatoescucumberred onionshredded cheddar cheesecrispy bacon bitscroutonssunflower seeds

For the dressing:

mayonapple cider vinegarsugarDijon mustardsaltpepper

directions

Wash and dry the romaine lettuce thoroughly, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, thinly slice the cucumber and red onions.

In a large salad bowl, combine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, shredded cheddar, bacon bits, croutons, and sunflower seeds.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesDressing prep time: 5 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken, steak, or hard-boiled eggs for a protein boost.

Use mixed greens or baby spinach in place of romaine.

Swap sunflower seeds for chopped almonds or pecans.

Try blue cheese or feta instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Add sliced avocado or dried cranberries for extra richness or sweetness.

storage/reheating

Store undressed salad components in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.Store the dressing in a sealed jar or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.Once dressed, the salad is best eaten immediately to avoid sogginess.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes—chop and store ingredients separately, then toss together just before serving.

Is this salad kid-friendly?

Absolutely, especially with the bacon, cheese, and croutons—it’s a hit with picky eaters.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Yes, but the homemade version adds a personal, flavorful touch that elevates the salad.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Simply omit the bacon or replace it with plant-based bacon bits.

What kind of lettuce is best?

Romaine is ideal for crunch, but any fresh greens work well.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes—try mozzarella, gouda, or a shredded Mexican blend.

How long does the dressing last?

Up to 1 week refrigerated in a sealed container.

Can I add fruit?

Yes! Apples, pears, or strawberries make great additions.

Should the salad be served cold?

Yes, it’s best served chilled for freshness and crunch.

What can I use instead of sunflower seeds?

Try pumpkin seeds, pine nuts, or chopped walnuts.

Conclusion

The Family Favorite Salad is a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that brings together fresh ingredients, rich toppings, and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and sure to become a go-to dish at your table. Serve it once, and it just might become a staple in your home.