Ahhh yes — the North Woods Inn Salad 🥗 — a classic American-style salad known for its fresh, crisp ingredients, often served at steakhouses or cozy lodges in the Midwest and Northeast. Think hearty, colorful, and simple but flavorful, with a homemade dressing that ties it all together.
Here’s a traditional version:
North Woods Inn Salad
Ingredients (serves 2–4)
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4 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, iceberg, and/or spring mix)
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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½ cup cucumber, sliced or diced
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½ cup shredded carrots
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½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
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½ cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
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½ cup shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese
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Optional: chopped bell peppers, radishes, or bacon bits
Dressing
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¼ cup mayonnaise
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2 tbsp sour cream
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1 tbsp red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
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1 tsp sugar
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½ tsp Dijon mustard
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Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the dressing
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Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, and mustard.
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Season with salt & pepper to taste.
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Chill until ready to serve.
2️⃣ Assemble the salad
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In a large bowl, combine salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, carrots, and red onion.
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Sprinkle cheese and croutons on top.
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Drizzle dressing over just before serving and toss lightly.
Tips & Variations
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Extra crunch: add toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts.
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Protein boost: top with grilled chicken, turkey, or steak slices.
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Dressing twist: add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or minced garlic for depth.
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Make ahead: salad components can be prepped in advance, just add croutons and dressing last-minute.
If you want, I can give a “North Woods Inn Steakhouse Copycat Salad” version with extra layers of flavor, like bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and a creamy but tangy dressing that tastes exactly like the restaurant version.
Do you want me to do that?