In a well-made chopped salad, every bite is a confetti-burst of flavor. To achieve that here, we've combined equal-size bits of crisp, colorful vegetables -- a feature that also makes it easy for kids to eat. For the finale, try one of these homemade dressings: Creamy Blue Cheese or Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Ranch. Made fresh, they have a flavor that just can't be matched by bottled versions.

Ingredients

• 1 romaine lettuce heart
• 4 to 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crisp, cooled, and chopped
• 1/2 pint grape tomatoes, halved
• 2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped

• 1 English cucumber, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• Salad Dressing (we suggest Ranch or Blue Cheese--see above)

Instructions

1. Chop the lettuce heart into 1- to 2-inch pieces. Combine it with the bacon, other vegetables, and nuts in a large bowl and toss the mixture well.

2. Keep the salad chilled until serving time. Then toss it again with enough dressing to lightly coat the vegetables, and season it with salt and pepper. Serves 6.

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Find more about:

• Green & Vegetable Salads |
• Romaine Lettuce |
• Spring |
• Summer |
• Walnuts

Related Categories:

• Summer Salad Ideas |
• All Salads |
• Green & Vegetable Salads |
• Spring Dinners