Irish Pub Salad

Irish Pub Salad Recipe - Traditional & Delicious | Food Recipes

Region / culture: Ireland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Irish Pub Salad is a delicious and hearty salad that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This salad is packed with fresh ingredients and topped with a creamy tarragon dressing that adds a burst of flavor.

History

Irish Pub Salad is a traditional salad that is often found on the menu at Irish pubs. It is a simple and classic dish that is loved for its fresh and vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

0.5 cup mayonnaise (regular or low-fat)
2 tbsp malt vinegar or white wine vinegar
2 tsp fresh tarragon, chopped (or 0.75 tsp dried)
1 tsp whole grain dijon mustard
2 tsp water
4 cup Boston or bibb lettuce, torn
4 cup salad bar ingredients (sliced pickled beets, cucumber, diced tomatoes, chopped celery, shredded cabbage, sliced onions)
2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and sliced
4 oz (113 g) cheddar and/or blue cheese, cut into wedges

How to prepare

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, tarragon, and Dijon mustard. Add enough water to thin the dressing to a pourable consistency. Season with salt and pepper. Arrange lettuce on a platter. Place salad bar ingredients over the lettuce. Top with sliced hard-boiled eggs. Drizzle dressing over the salad. Arrange cheese wedges around the edge of the platter and serve.

Variations

You can add cooked chicken or bacon to this salad for an extra protein boost.
Try using a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or feta, for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh tarragon for the dressing to get the best flavor.

- You can customize this salad with your favorite salad bar ingredients.

- Make sure to season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a main dish or as a side dish alongside your favorite Irish pub fare.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making this salad is to prepare the dressing first and then assemble the salad ingredients on a platter. This allows the flavors to meld together for a delicious and cohesive dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have tarragon, you can use another fresh herb such as parsley or chives in the dressing. You can also use a different type of lettuce if you prefer.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dressing and hard-boiled eggs ahead of time to save time when assembling the salad. Just be sure to store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the salad ingredients on a large platter for a beautiful presentation. You can also garnish the salad with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a pint of Guinness or a glass of white wine. It also goes well with traditional Irish dishes such as shepherd's pie or corned beef and cabbage.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing may separate slightly, so be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Irish Pub Salad contains approximately 300 calories, making it a light and satisfying meal option.

Carbohydrates

This salad is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those looking to watch their carb intake.

Fats

The main source of fat in this salad comes from the mayonnaise and blue cheese. However, the fats in this salad are healthy fats that can be enjoyed in moderation.

Proteins

This salad is a good source of protein from the hard-boiled eggs and blue cheese. Protein is important for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh lettuce, onions, and tarragon. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This salad contains eggs and dairy (blue cheese), so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Irish Pub Salad is a nutritious and delicious salad that is low in carbohydrates and packed with vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a light and satisfying meal.

Summary

Irish Pub Salad is a delicious and nutritious salad that is perfect for a light and satisfying meal. Packed with fresh ingredients and topped with a creamy tarragon dressing, this salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe. It was a warm summer evening, and I was visiting a quaint little Irish pub with some friends. As we sat at the bar, sipping on pints of Guinness and enjoying the lively atmosphere, I noticed a chalkboard sign hanging on the wall behind the bar.

"Try our famous Irish Pub Salad - fresh greens, bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and a tangy mustard dressing," it read. Intrigued, I asked the bartender about the salad and he told me it was a traditional dish served in Irish pubs all over the country.

I was immediately drawn to the idea of combining fresh greens with hearty bacon and eggs, and I knew I had to recreate this salad at home. So, I struck up a conversation with the bartender, who kindly shared the basic ingredients and instructions with me. But being the adventurous cook that I am, I decided to put my own twist on the recipe.

The next day, I set to work gathering the ingredients for my version of the Irish Pub Salad. I started by crisping up some thick-cut, smoky bacon in a skillet until it was perfectly browned and crispy. As the bacon cooked, the savory aroma filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Next, I boiled a few eggs until they were just set, then peeled and sliced them into quarters. The bright yellow yolks contrasted beautifully with the crisp, green lettuce leaves I had washed and torn into bite-sized pieces. I also added some thinly sliced red onions for a bit of bite and a pop of color.

For the dressing, I whisked together Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, honey, and a splash of olive oil until it was creamy and smooth. The tangy sweetness of the dressing complemented the salty bacon and rich eggs perfectly, tying all the flavors together in a delicious harmony.

Once all the components were prepared, I assembled the salad in a large bowl, layering the ingredients one by one. I sprinkled the crispy bacon pieces over the top, followed by the sliced eggs and red onions. Finally, I drizzled the mustard dressing over the salad and tossed it gently to coat everything in the tangy goodness.

As I took my first bite of the Irish Pub Salad, I was transported back to that cozy little pub with its warm atmosphere and friendly patrons. The flavors of the salad were a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy, and I knew I had hit upon a winning recipe.

Over the years, I have continued to make my version of the Irish Pub Salad for family and friends, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. And every time I prepare it, I am reminded of that fateful evening in the Irish pub, where I first discovered this delicious dish that has become a staple in my repertoire.

So, here it is, my own take on the classic Irish Pub Salad. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do, and that it brings a taste of the Emerald Isle into your own home. Sláinte!