Mandarin-Bacon Salad

This is a nice zesty luncheon salad. From Southern Living.

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup olive oil
• 1⁄4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1⁄4 cup sugar
• 1  tablespoon  chopped fresh basil
• 1⁄4 teaspoon  hot sauce
• 2 (15 ounce) cans mandarin oranges, drained and chilled
• 1  head red leaf lettuce, torn into pieces
• 1  head romaine lettuce, torn into pieces
• 1  lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 (4 ounce) package  sliced almonds, toasted (optional)
•  salt and pepper

Directions

1. In a bowl, add the first 5 ingredients; stir with a whisk until well blended.
2. Add the mandarin orange slices and lettuce to the bowl, toss to gently coat.
3. Sprinkle the bacon and toasted almonds into the bowl; toss gently to mix.
4. Season with salt and pepper if desired.
5. Serve immediately.