This Hot ‘N Spicy Salad Sizzler is a bold, warm dressing that transforms simple greens or roasted vegetables into a flavorful meal. By combining crisp, salty bacon bits with the tangy heat of Pace Picante Sauce and bright red wine vinegar, you create a complex sauce that balances sweet, sour, and spicy notes. The sugar helps to temper the acidity, resulting in a smooth, glossy coating that clings beautifully to spinach or sliced tomatoes. It is an excellent choice for potlucks, summer barbecues, or as a vibrant side dish to accompany grilled meats. Quick to prepare and full of character, this recipe brings a dynamic kick to your table without requiring any exotic ingredients.
Hot ‘N Spicy Salad Sizzler
Description
This Hot 'N Spicy Salad Sizzler is a bold, warm dressing that transforms simple greens or roasted vegetables into a flavorful meal. By combining crisp, salty bacon bits with the tangy heat of Pace Picante Sauce and bright red wine vinegar, you create a complex sauce that balances sweet, sour, and spicy notes. The sugar helps to temper the acidity, resulting in a smooth, glossy coating that clings beautifully to spinach or sliced tomatoes. It is an excellent choice for potlucks, summer barbecues, or as a vibrant side dish to accompany grilled meats. Quick to prepare and full of character, this recipe brings a dynamic kick to your table without requiring any exotic ingredients.Ingredients
Directions
-
Place a skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon slices until they are crisp and browned.
-
Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
-
Once cool enough to handle, dice the bacon into small, bite-sized pieces.
-
Return the skillet to low heat and add the Picante Sauce, red wine vinegar, and sugar.
-
Stir the mixture constantly until the sugar has completely dissolved and the sauce begins to simmer.
-
Fold the diced bacon into the hot sauce mixture and stir to combine evenly.
-
Remove from heat and drizzle the warm dressing immediately over fresh spinach or sliced tomatoes.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 559.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 42.1g65%
- Saturated Fat 14.0g70%
- Cholesterol 46.0mg16%
- Sodium 1813.1mg76%
- Total Carbohydrate 5.0g2%
- Dietary Fiber 0.3g2%
- Sugars 3.7g
- Protein 37.3g75%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: This dressing is best served warm. If you need to make it ahead, store the sauce and bacon separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Substitutions: For a vegetarian or vegan version, omit the bacon and use nutritional yeast or toasted sunflower seeds for crunch. You can also substitute the Picante Sauce with a mild salsa or a mix of tomato sauce and hot sauce.
Tip: Taste the dressing after the sugar dissolves; you can adjust the sweetness or heat level by adding a pinch more sugar or a dash of hot sauce according to your preference.
Serving Suggestion: This dressing pairs exceptionally well with hearty greens like kale or spinach, as the warmth helps wilt the leaves slightly. It also makes a delicious topping for grilled vegetables or baked potatoes.