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Bacon Ranch Egg Salad: A Delectable Twist on a Classic

Egg salad has long been a beloved staple in British kitchens, often served on sandwiches, toasted bread, or simply enjoyed with crisp salad leaves. However, the traditional recipe can take on a delightful twist with the addition of two quintessential ingredients: bacon and ranch dressing. The combination of creamy, tangy ranch with the crispy, savoury notes of bacon elevates this egg salad to new heights, making it a perfect choice for lunches, picnics, or even as a light meal.

Ingredients

To make Bacon Ranch Egg Salad, you will need the following ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 4 slices of bacon
• 3 tablespoons of ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of finely chopped chives or spring onions
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Boil the Eggs: Begin by placing the eggs in a saucepan and covering them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil, then remove from the heat and cover the pan. Let the eggs sit for about 9-12 minutes, depending on your preference for firmness. Once cooked, transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool, making them easier to peel.

2. Cook the Bacon: While the eggs are cooling, cook the bacon in a frying pan over medium heat until it is crispy. Once cooked, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.

3. Prepare the Egg Salad: Peel the cooled eggs and chop them into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped eggs, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, mayonnaise (if using), Dijon mustard, chopped chives or spring onions, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Gently fold the ingredients together until everything is well mixed. Be careful not to mash the eggs too much; you want to maintain some texture.

4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the salad and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt, pepper, or ranch dressing as necessary.

5. Serve: Garnish the egg salad with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve it chilled on a fresh baguette, in a sandwich, or atop a crisp bed of lettuce for a refreshing low-carb option. It also pairs beautifully with crackers or as part of a buffet spread.

Culinary Tips

• Ranch Dressing: While store-bought ranch dressing is convenient, making your own can offer a fresher taste. Combine buttermilk, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like dill for a homemade variant that tailors to your palate.

• Variations: For an added crunch, you might include some finely diced celery or bell peppers. If you’re a fan of spices, consider adding some hot sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky kick.

• Storage: This egg salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a perfect meal prep option.

Conclusion

Bacon Ranch Egg Salad is not only a tasty addition to your culinary repertoire but also an excellent way to savour the simplicity of eggs and the richness of bacon. Whether you’re hosting a summer brunch or preparing a quick lunch, this delightful dish combines flavour and comfort in every bite. With its creamy texture and crunchy bits, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. So, why stick to the classic when you can enjoy the delicious twist of bacon and ranch? Give this recipe a try, and it may just become a new favourite in your home!

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