17 Southern Salad Recipes Everyone Should Try At Least Once - Tasting Table

"We have to admit that there are some very loose definitions of "salad" in the South, like the pear salad that's nothing but a canned pear half topped with mayo, shredded cheddar, and a maraschio cherry. Some of these salads will have you raising an eyebrow wondering how it was ever deemed a salad and whether or not it will taste good. However, we assure you that Southerners are all about flavor and will not steer you wrong."

"Granted, you have to be a mayonnaise fan to enjoy a lot of them. And some Southerners will fight you over whether you should be using Duke's real mayonnaise or Miracle Whip. However, there are certainly a few that use a vinegar-based dressing or other creamy ingredients besides mayo. The best places to experience a good Southern salad in the wild are picnics, potlucks, barbecues, and holiday get-togethers, nestled among the deviled eggs and dinner rolls."

Southern salads range from classic lettuce and potato varieties to inventive pairings of meats, vegetables, and fruits, as well as several dessert salads. Some Southern definitions of 'salad' are unconventional, such as a pear salad made from a canned pear half topped with mayonnaise, shredded cheddar, and a maraschio cherry. Many Southern salads rely on mayonnaise-based dressings, with debates over Duke's versus Miracle Whip, though some use vinegar-based dressings or other creamy ingredients. Southern salads are commonly served at picnics, potlucks, barbecues, and holiday gatherings. Seventeen Southern salad recipes can be prepared at home for such occasions.

Read at Tasting Table