Dandelion and Bitter Greens with Fried Potatoes and Warm Bacon Dressing

Ingredients

• 2 cups chopped dandelion leaves (about 1/2 pound)
• 2 cups baby red leaf lettuce
• 1 cup chopped escarole or frisee
• 1 cup sliced Belgian endive
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced radishes
• 3 hard boiled eggs, roughly chopped
• 4 strips apple-smoked bacon, cut into 3/4-inch dice
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup grated peeled apples
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• Fried potatoes, recipe follows

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the dandelions, red lead lettuce, escarole, endive, radishes, and eggs, and toss to mix.

In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat, stirring, until crisp and brown. Add the vinegar and sugar, and cook, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Add the apples and stir to combine. Season with the salt and pepper, and add the oil. Remove from the heat and pour the hot dressing over greens mixture and mix thoroughly. Top with the Fried Potatoes.

Adjust the seasoning, to taste, and serve immediately. (Dressing can be prepared ahead and reheated, stirring constantly to keep from sticking to saucepan. If it thickens too much, add a little water.)

Fried Potatoes:

• 2 pounds baking potatoes, like russets, peeled and cut into uniform 1/2-inch cubes
• 3 cups vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 teaspoon salt

In a medium, heavy saucepan, place the potatoes in enough salted water to cover by 1-inch. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are slightly tender, about 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and drain on paper towels.

Heat the oil in a large, deep, heavy pot or an electric deep fryer to 360 degrees F. Add the potatoes and fry, turning to brow evenly, for 3 to 4 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels. Season lightly with salt, to taste, and serve warm in the salad.