Transform the classic Monte Cristo sandwich into a delightful salad with this Monte Cristo Salad recipe. It features the same delicious combination of ham, turkey, and cheese but is tossed with a vibrant homemade raspberry poppyseed dressing instead of deep frying. If you enjoy the Monte Cristo sandwich, this salad version is a must-try!
Salad Composition
- Greens: Romaine lettuce forms the fresh, crisp base of the salad, though any mix of greens will work.
- Meats: Incorporating both ham and turkey, chopped into small pieces to mimic the layers found in the traditional sandwich.
- Cheeses: A blend of mild cheddar and Swiss cheese, cubed for easy mixing.
- Dressing: The raspberry poppyseed dressing replaces the raspberry jam typically served with the sandwich, adding a unique twist to the salad.
- Garnishes: Homemade croutons bring a crunchy texture, and shaved parmesan adds a final cheesy touch.
Preparing in Advance
You can chop and prepare all ingredients ahead of time. Assemble without the dressing and store in the refrigerator for 3-5 days; keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.
Alternative Dressings
While the raspberry poppyseed dressing is recommended, feel free to substitute it with another favorite like homemade ranch or Thousand Island dressing if preferred.
Ingredients
- 3-4 cups romaine lettuce, torn into pieces
- 1 cup honey ham, cubed
- 1 cup roasted turkey, cubed
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, cubed
- ⅓ cup raspberry poppyseed dressing
- Homemade croutons, for garnish
- Shaved parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the lettuce, ham, turkey, cheddar cheese, and Swiss cheese.
- Add Dressing and Garnish: Drizzle with raspberry poppyseed dressing. Top with homemade croutons and shaved parmesan cheese.
- Toss and Serve: Gently toss all ingredients until well combined and serve immediately.
This Monte Cristo Salad is a creative and lighter alternative to the fried sandwich, perfect for a nutritious lunch or a refreshing dinner side dish.
