Lyonnaise Salad (Salade Lyonnaise)

Lyonnaise Salad is a classic French bistro dish that combines crisp frisée lettuce, smoky bacon, crunchy croutons, and a perfectly poached egg. Tossed in a tangy Dijon vinaigrette, this salad is a delicious balance of textures and flavors, making it a perfect light meal or appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic French Bistro Dish – A staple in Lyon’s culinary tradition, enjoyed in restaurants and home kitchens alike.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors – The richness of bacon and poached egg contrasts beautifully with the crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, making it a great choice for busy days.
• Elegant and Satisfying – Light yet indulgent, perfect for brunch, lunch, or as a starter.
• Customizable – Easily adapted with different greens, proteins, or dressings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 cups frisée lettuce (or mixed greens)
• 4 large eggs
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 cup croutons
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar (for poaching)

For the Dijon vinaigrette:

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the bacon

• In a medium skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
• Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.

2. Make the vinaigrette

• In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
• If desired, mix in 1 teaspoon of the warm bacon fat for extra flavor.

3. Poach the eggs

• Bring a pot of water to a gentle simmer and add white vinegar.
• Swirl the water gently and carefully drop in each egg, one at a time.
• Poach for 3 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel.

4. Assemble the salad

• Toss the frisée lettuce with the vinaigrette in a large bowl.
• Top with crispy bacon, croutons, and finely chopped shallots.
• Place a poached egg on top of each serving.

5. Serve

• Serve immediately with fresh crusty bread on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving

Variations

• Chicken Lyonnaise Salad: Add grilled chicken for extra protein.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit bacon and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas.
• Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese or grated Parmesan.
• Lighter Dressing: Use lemon juice instead of red wine vinegar for a fresher taste.
• Nutty Crunch: Add toasted walnuts or almonds for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover ingredients separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat bacon in a skillet for 2 minutes before serving.
• Poached Eggs: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in cold water in the fridge for up to 1 day. Reheat in warm water before serving.

FAQs

What is Lyonnaise Salad?

It’s a French bistro salad made with frisée lettuce, bacon, poached eggs, and a tangy Dijon vinaigrette.

What kind of lettuce is best?

Frisée is traditional, but you can use arugula, butter lettuce, or mixed greens.

How do I keep my poached eggs intact?

Use fresh eggs, swirl the water before dropping the eggs in, and don’t overcrowd the pot.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the bacon, croutons, and vinaigrette in advance. Poach the eggs just before serving.

What pairs well with Lyonnaise Salad?

It goes well with French bread, a glass of white wine, or a light soup.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes! Apple cider vinegar or sherry vinegar work well as substitutes.

Should I serve this salad warm or cold?

It’s best enjoyed warm, with freshly poached eggs and crispy bacon.

How do I make homemade croutons?

Toss cubed bread with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Try cherry tomatoes, roasted asparagus, or avocado for extra color and flavor.

How do I prevent my bacon from burning?

Cook it on medium heat, stirring occasionally, to ensure even crisping.

Conclusion

Lyonnaise Salad is a delightful French bistro classic that combines crisp frisée, smoky bacon, and a perfectly poached egg with a tangy Dijon vinaigrette. Whether for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this elegant yet simple salad is sure to impress. Serve with fresh bread and enjoy a taste of Lyon at home!