The Philly Salad

I love a salad that doesn’t take itself too seriously and this salad definitely fits the bill. It’s crunchy, salty, herby, and covered in fries — which is really the whole point. Romaine gives it some crunch and credibility, but the real stars are the golden fries, sharp Irish cheddar, and a homemade ranch that’s worth whisking together (don’t skip it). Pepperoncini bring the tang, fresh herbs keep it bright, and together it all feels like a salad that’s enjoyable while still being nutrient dense.

Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a low-stakes dinner party side that gets more attention than the main.

Philly Salad

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Yield: 2-3

Author: Courtney Lay

Prep time: 15 MinCook time: 20 MinTotal time: 35 Min

Crisp romaine, sharp cheddar, tangy pepperoncini, and golden fries all tied together with a creamy homemade ranch that tastes better than anything from a bottle.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/3 cup sliced pepperoncini
• 1/2 cup shredded Irish cheddar
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 2 cups cooked French fries (store-bought or homemade), seasoned
• Flaky salt and black pepper, to finish

For The Homemade Ranch Dressing

• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Juice of half a lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 garlic clove, finely grated
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried or fresh dill

Instructions

1. To make the ranch, whisk together the buttermilk, mayo, and Greek yogurt until smooth. Stir in chives, parsley, lemon juice, onion powder, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. Refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Start prepping the salad in a large bowl, combine chopped romaine, tomatoes, pepperoncini, cheddar, parsley, and dill.
3. Bake or air-fry the French fries until crispy and golden, according to package or recipe directions. Season lightly with salt while hot.
4. Just before serving, toss the salad with your desired amount of ranch dressing. Top with hot fries and give it a final sprinkle of flaky salt and cracked black pepper.