Cornbread Salad Recipe

Cornbread Salad is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the southern comfort of cornbread with fresh vegetables, creamy dressing, and savory bacon. This salad is not only visually appealing with its layers but also offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes. It's perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a special side dish.

Ingredients:

1. 3 ½ cups cornbread, cooked and crumbled
2. 10 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
3. 1 ounce package ranch dressing mix
4. 1 ½ cups sour cream
5. 1 ½ cups mayonnaise
6. 2 cans pinto beans, drained
7. 3 tomatoes, chopped
8. 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
9. 1 cup chopped green onion
10. 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
11. 2 cans whole kernel corn, drained

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Preparation:

Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the ranch dressing mix, sour cream, and mayonnaise until well blended. This will be the dressing for your salad.

Step 2: In a large serving bowl or a trifle dish, start layering the salad. Begin with half of the crumbled cornbread as the base layer.

Step 3: Follow the cornbread layer with half of the drained pinto beans, spreading them out evenly.

Step 4: Add a layer using half of the chopped tomatoes, followed by a layer of half of the green bell pepper and half of the green onion.

Step 5: Spread half of the ranch dressing mixture over the vegetables.

Step 6: Sprinkle half of the shredded Cheddar cheese over the dressing layer.

Step 7: Add a layer using half of the whole kernel corn.

Step 8: Repeat the layers, starting again with the remaining cornbread and following the same order: pinto beans, tomatoes, green bell pepper, green onion, ranch dressing mixture, Cheddar cheese, and finishing with the remaining whole kernel corn.

Step 9: Garnish the top of the salad with the crumbled bacon. Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

COOKING Note: The chilling time is crucial for this salad as it helps the layers to set and the flavors to intensify.

Serving Suggestions: Serve the cornbread salad chilled as a side dish. It pairs well with barbecue, grilled meats, or as a standout dish at a potluck.

Tips:

1. For a lighter version, you can use low-fat sour cream and mayonnaise.
2. Add a layer of sliced hard-boiled eggs or avocado for additional richness.
3. You can customize the salad by adding other vegetables like diced cucumber or red bell pepper.
4. For the best texture, use day-old cornbread as it holds up better in layers.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 2-3 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving.
• Protein: Approximately 10-15 grams per serving.
• Sodium: Approximately 600-800 mg per serving, largely from the bacon, cheese, and ranch dressing mix.

Conclusion: Cornbread Salad is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together the sweetness of cornbread with the savory flavors of bacon and ranch. Its layered presentation makes it not only a delicious but also an attractive addition to any meal table. Perfect for those who love a twist on traditional salads, it's a wonderful blend of southern charm and fresh, wholesome ingredients.