Pantry Bistro Salad

Serves 4
When you think there is no food in the house, you can prepare this satisfying and hearty salad by scrounging the fridge and pantry for a few simple ingredients. This is a facsimile of a French-style bistro salad complete with bacon and eggs, an unerring choice for the guys.

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 pound bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1/2 white onion, chopped
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 heads of romaine lettuce, washed, dried, and chilled
  • 2 capfuls red wine vinegar
  • Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Toasted bread slices, for serving

DIRECTIONS

  1. Heat a medium skillet over medium high heat, and then swirl in 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. Add the bacon and onion and saute until the bacon is crisp, 5 to 8 minutes. Remove the bacon and onion mixture with a slotted spoon to drain on paper towels.
  2. Meanwhile, poach the eggs in gently boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes, until the white is set and the yolk is still runny. Using a slotted spoon, remove the eggs and place on a clean kitchen towel to drain.
  3. Slice the lettuce into 1/2-inch pieces and place in a large salad bowl. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and the vinegar and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the leaves.
  4. Divide the lettuce among 4 bowls. Sprinkle each with the bacon mixture. Place an egg on top of each and serve immediately with toasted bread.
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