The Quintessential Iceberg Lettuce Salad Baked by Melissa: Your New Favorite Potluck Star

There are some dishes that instantly transport you back to simpler times, to family gatherings, or sunny afternoon potlucks. The classic iceberg lettuce salad is undeniably one of them. Today, we’re diving into a beloved rendition that has captured hearts and taste buds: the incredible Iceberg Lettuce Salad Baked by Melissa. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a refreshing, crisp, and utterly delicious experience, combining crunchy vegetables with a creamy, tangy dressing that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Iceberg Lettuce Salad Baked by Melissa

• Effortless & Quick: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute potlucks.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Crisp iceberg, fresh vegetables, savory bacon (optional), and a creamy, tangy dressing create a universally loved, nostalgic flavor.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether for a barbecue, light lunch, or family gathering, this iceberg lettuce salad baked by melissa fits perfectly.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Iceberg Lettuce Salad Baked by Melissa

While the recipe for this iceberg lettuce salad baked by melissa is straightforward, a few ingredient considerations elevate your dish from good to unforgettable.

• Iceberg Lettuce: The star! Choose a firm, heavy head free from brown spots. Its signature crunch is irreplaceable. Wash and dry thoroughly.
• Mayonnaise: Use good quality, full-fat mayo for the richest flavor and best dressing texture.
• Bacon: Cooked, crumbled bacon adds fantastic salty, smoky depth. Pan-fry, oven-bake, or use pre-cooked bits. This optional addition truly enhances the savory profile.
• Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar offers a sharper, fresher taste than pre-shredded varieties.
• Red Onion: For a milder flavor, slice thinly and soak in cold water for 10-15 minutes before adding.
• Milk, White Vinegar, and Sugar: This trio creates the signature sweet and tangy balance in the dressing. Don’t skip the sugar; it rounds out the acidity beautifully.

Crafting Your Delicious Iceberg Lettuce Salad Baked by Melissa: A Step-by-Step Guide

Prepping Your Fresh Salad Components

Start by washing and chopping your iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces, ensuring it’s thoroughly dried. Halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, and thinly slice red onion. If including bacon, cook until crispy and crumble. These steps guarantee every bite of your iceberg lettuce salad baked by melissa is fresh and vibrant.

Crafting the Creamy, Tangy Dressing

The heart of this iceberg lettuce salad baked by melissa lies in its simple yet flavorful dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings for a perfect balance.

Assembling Your Iceberg Lettuce Salad Baked by Melissa

Combine chopped iceberg lettuce, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and sliced red onion in a large serving bowl. Pour the creamy dressing over the vegetables. If using, sprinkle crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese on top. Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Serve your delightful iceberg lettuce salad baked by melissa immediately to enjoy its peak crispness and flavor.

Iceberg Lettuce Salad Baked by Melissa

A refreshing and easy-to-make iceberg lettuce salad, a classic side dish often served at potlucks, family gatherings, or as a simple weeknight meal.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 head Iceberg Lettuce
• 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes halved
• 1 Cucumber diced
• 1/4 Red Onion thinly sliced
• 4 slices Bacon cooked and crumbled (optional)
• 1/2 cup Cheddar Cheese shredded (optional)
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Milk
• 1 tablespoon White Vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper

Equipment

• Large Bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring Cups
• Measuring Spoons

Method

 

Instructions

1. Wash and chop the iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Dice the cucumber. Thinly slice the red onion. If using, cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. In a large serving bowl, combine the chopped iceberg lettuce, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and sliced red onion.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad. Add the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Toss gently to coat all the ingredients. Serve immediately.

Notes

This salad is best served immediately after dressing to prevent the lettuce from wilting. For a creamier dressing, you can add a tablespoon of mayonnaise or sour cream.

Expert Tips & Creative Variations for Your Iceberg Lettuce Salad Baked by Melissa

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

While this iceberg lettuce salad baked by melissa is best served immediately, you can prep components in advance. Wash and chop lettuce, vegetables, cook bacon, and shred cheese, storing each separately. Prepare dressing and store separately. Assemble and dress just before serving to maintain crispness.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Note that lettuce will soften over time.

Creative Variations to Customize Your Iceberg Lettuce Salad Baked by Melissa

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, turkey, or even a Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast for Two: Your Easy Weeknight or Holiday Meal Solution. Hard-boiled eggs are another classic.
• Cheese Swaps: Try crumbled blue cheese, feta, or Parmesan instead of cheddar.
• Extra Crunch: Toasted croutons, chopped nuts, or crispy fried onions add texture.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of cayenne or a drizzle of hot sauce can add a kick. Consider serving alongside Hot Honey Biscuits: A Sweet and Spicy Southern Treat You’ll Crave.
• Vegetable Additions: Bell peppers, corn, radishes, or fresh herbs like dill or parsley introduce new flavors.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Iceberg Lettuce Salad Baked by Melissa

This versatile iceberg lettuce salad baked by melissa makes an excellent accompaniment to many dishes. Its refreshing crunch and creamy tang cut through richer flavors beautifully.

• BBQ & Grilled Meats: A natural partner for grilled chicken, ribs, burgers, or hot dogs, offering a cool contrast to smoky mains.
• Sandwiches & Wraps: Serve it alongside your favorite deli sandwiches, pulled pork sliders, or wraps for a complete lunch.
• Potlucks & Picnics: This salad is a quintessential potluck dish – easy to transport, universally loved, and always a hit.
• Weeknight Dinners: Pair it with simple roasted chicken, baked fish, or a pasta dish for a balanced and flavorful meal.

The Iceberg Lettuce Salad Baked by Melissa is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, well-executed dishes. With its crisp textures, vibrant flavors, and creamy, irresistible dressing, it promises to be a refreshing addition to any table. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed for success, bringing a burst of freshness and a touch of nostalgia to your next meal. So, gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and prepare to enjoy a classic salad that truly shines!