- CROUTONS;
- 4 cups soft bread crumbs
- 1/3 cup finely chopped Vidalia or other sweet onion
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- oil for frying
- DRESSING:
- 1/3 cup chopped Vidalia or other sweet onion
- 1/3 cup cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 10 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- SALAD:
- 16 cups torn fresh spinach
- 1/2 pound sliced bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium Vidalia or other sweet onion, sliced and separated into rings
- In a bowl, combine the bread crumbs, onion and parsley. Stir in butter and egg; mix well. Shape into 1/2-in. balls. In an electric skillet, heat 1 in. of oil to 375 degrees F. Fry croutons for 10-15 seconds, turning to brown all sides. Drain on paper towels.
- For dressing, combine onion, vinegar, honey and mustard in a blender or food processor; cover and process until smooth. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream. Stir in poppy seeds. In a salad bowl, toss the spinach, bacon, onion rings and croutons. Serve with dressing.