1890. BIBB and RADISH SALAD with BACON DRESSING

yields 4 to 6 servings


6 ounces slab bacon, trimmed and cut into thin, bite-size pieces 1/2 cup water
2 shallots, peeled
Kosher salt
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
8 radishes, tops trimmed down to 1/2-inch, thoroughly washed and dried
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
3 heads Bibb lettuce, removed, cut in 1/2, washed and dried

In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the bacon and 1/2 cup water. Bring the water to a boil and reduce until it evaporates. The bacon will start to render its fat and brown. Lower the heat and allow to cook at a slow, steady pace. When the bacon is crispy and light brown, drain the fat into a medium-size bowl and set the bacon aside. Put the shallots on a flat surface and cut them into thin rounds. Transfer to a large salad bowl and season them with salt, to taste. Add the red wine vinegar and mustard and stir to blend. Stir in the bacon fat, tasting as you go. Start with about 1/4 cup of the fat and taste as you add the rest. There should be a good balance between the bacon flavor and the acidity of the red wine vinegar. Set aside. Put the radishes on a cutting board and, using a small, sharp knife, slice them into 1/4-inch rounds (with the bit of the tops still attached). Add them to a small bowl and stir in the mustard. Add the Bibb lettuce to the bowl with the bacon dressing. Toss to blend. Taste for seasoning, then stir in the radishes and the cooked bacon. Serve immediately.


bacon recipe courtesy of: Alex Guarnaschelli, "Lunch with Friends," Alex's Day Off, The Food Network