Get ready to revolutionize your salad game with a dressing so irresistible, it'll make even the most reluctant vegetable eaters beg for more! This Creamy Tomato Bacon Vinaigrette is not just a dressing – it's a culinary masterpiece that combines the smoky richness of crispy bacon, the tangy zip of apple cider vinegar, and the smooth creaminess of mayonnaise. Perfect for those looking to elevate their everyday meals from ordinary to extraordinary, this quick and easy recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Dressing
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup tomato puree
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Allow bacon to cool completely, then crumble into small, fine pieces using your fingers or a knife.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, tomato puree, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Whisk ingredients together until smooth and well incorporated.
- Add the crumbled bacon to the mixture, stirring gently to distribute evenly throughout the dressing.
- Season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed to balance flavors.
- Transfer the dressing to an airtight container or glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together. The dressing will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Serve chilled over salads, as a dip, or as a condiment for sandwiches and wraps.
Tips
- Bacon Brilliance: For the most flavorful results, use thick-cut bacon and cook it until it's perfectly crisp. Pat the bacon dry with paper towels to remove excess grease before crumbling.
- Consistency is Key: Whisk the ingredients thoroughly to ensure a smooth, well-incorporated dressing. If the mixture seems too thick, you can thin it out with a little milk or additional vinegar.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor punch, try using applewood-smoked bacon or add a dash of smoked paprika to enhance the smoky notes.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This dressing actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. Don't be afraid to prepare it in advance!
- Storage Savvy: Store the vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep and quick meal additions.
- Versatility Tip: This dressing isn't just for salads! Use it as a dip for vegetables, a spread for sandwiches, or a drizzle over grilled meats for an instant flavor upgrade.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 245kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 18mg
