KETO MIXED GREEN SPRING SALAD
Embrace spring flavors in under 10 minutes with this refreshing, nutrient-packed salad! Bursting with peppery greens, salty bacon, buttery pine nuts, and tangy raspberry dressing, this low-carb powerhouse balances crunch, richness, and bright acidity – all for just 3g net carbs! Perfect as a light lunch or elegant side
Yield
1 large serving
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient | Prep Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 oz | Mixed Greens | Baby spinach/arugula blend |
| 2 slices | Bacon | Extra-crispy, edges slightly charred |
| 3 tbsp | Pine Nuts | Lightly toasted |
| 2 tbsp | 5-Min Keto Raspberry Vinaigrette | Make ahead! |
| 2 tbsp | Parmesan Cheese | Freshly shaved with peeler |
| To taste | Flaky Sea Salt & Black Pepper |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Crisp the Bacon
“Char for complex bitterness!”
- Cook bacon in a skillet over medium-high until edges blacken slightly (2-3 mins post-crispness). Transfer to paper towels.
2. Toast the Pine Nuts
*30 seconds = maximum nuttiness.*
- In same skillet, toast pine nuts 30-60 seconds until golden. Watch closely – they burn fast!
3. Assemble & Shake
The “container shake” ensures perfect coating.
- In a lidded container, combine greens, crumbled bacon, pine nuts, parmesan, and vinaigrette.
- Seal and shake vigorously 10-15 times to distribute dressing evenly.
4. Finish & Serve
- Transfer to a plate. Top with extra shaved parmesan and cracked pepper.
Pro Chef Secrets
- Bacon Hack: Bake bacon at 400°F (200°C) for 15 mins – easier char control!
- Greens Tip: Pat greens bone-dry so dressing clings perfectly.
- Vinaigrette Shortcut: Whisk 1 tbsp raspberry vinegar + 1 tbsp olive oil + 3 mashed raspberries + pinch of erythritol.
- Nut Swap: Try pecans or pepitas for different crunch.
📊 Nutrition Per Serving
| Calories | Fat | Net Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| 285 | 25g | 3g | 10g |
Why This Recipe Works
This salad masters texture symphony: The charred bacon adds smoky depth that contrasts the sweet-tart vinaigrette, while toasted pine nuts provide crunch against silky parmesan. Shaking in a container (not tossing!) prevents greens from bruising, keeping every bite crisp and vibrant. Spring on a plate – keto-fied!
Serving Suggestion: Top with grilled chicken or salmon for a protein boost!