A new year means new choices. And given the option — we’re choosing local + healthy. That’s why we’re kicking 2022 off by celebrating a salad that’s been a Lexington staple since 1998.

“The Lexingtonian” at Malone’s has been a fan-favorite for 24 years. It’s the kind of salad that can serve as a light lunch or an entrée. We always order with salmon. And while it’s impossible to recreate the atmosphere of Malone’s, we think it’s fun to try and recreate local dishes at home — especially this healthy + delicious staple dish of our city.

The Lexingtonian

Salad

Mixed greens — We like a blend of iceberg + romaine.
Roma Tomatoes — In this type of tomato, water content is low + the texture is firm, making them a great choice for salads. Bonus points if you grow your own.
Bacon — Head to Critchfield Meats Family Market, 398A Southland Dr. to get the good stuff.

Dressing
This is our favorite version of a homemade creamy herb dressing. Disclaimer — it doesn’t taste exactly like Malone’s. Let us know if you think it’s close to chef Alan Lamoureux’s version at Malone’s.

¾ cup of mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
½ cup buttermilk
½ bunch of chives, sliced
Three sprigs of dill, finely chopped
½ cup chopped parsley
1-tbsp. Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper

Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ingredients until you achieve the desired consistency. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

That’s it — simple, delicious + so very Lexington. Enjoy this salad with good friends, good conversation, and your favorite pour of Kentucky bourbon.

Editor’s note: While dining, we asked the staff at Malone’s why the salad is called “The Lexingtonian." Rumor has it, owners Bruce Drake + Brian McCarty want the salad to serve as an ode to Lexington as the restaurant continues to expand to different cities.