Georgia Cracker Salad is one of those old-fashioned Southern recipes that surprises you with its simplicity and incredible flavor. Imagine a tomato sandwich—juicy, creamy, and comforting—but in salad form. This classic dish turns everyday pantry ingredients like saltine crackers, mayonnaise, tomatoes, and green onions into something truly special.
What Is Georgia Cracker Salad?
At first glance, this dish looks simple—just a mix of crushed crackers, tomatoes, green onions, and mayo. But don’t let that fool you! Georgia Cracker Salad is a beloved Southern comfort food that’s both nostalgic and delicious. It tastes like the best tomato sandwich you’ve ever had, all mixed up in a bowl.
This salad originated in Southeast Georgia and was popularized by Paula Deen, who helped introduce it to kitchens far beyond the South. You’ll now find it at picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings all over the region.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Made with ingredients you probably already have at home.
- Full of Southern Flavor: Creamy, tangy, and crunchy with every bite.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for barbecues, potlucks, and cookouts.
- Customizable: Add bacon, herbs, or eggs to make it your own.
Key Ingredients
- Saltine Crackers: The base of this salad. About one sleeve (35–40 crackers) gives that signature crumbly crunch. For a buttery twist, try Ritz or Townhouse crackers.
- Tomatoes: Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes—fresh from the garden if possible. Seed and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Mayonnaise: Duke’s Mayonnaise is the Southern favorite, but Hellmann’s or your favorite brand works fine.
- Green Onions: Add mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs (Optional): Add richness and a little extra protein.
How to Make Georgia Cracker Salad
- Prep the Tomatoes: Seed, chop, and blot them with paper towels to remove excess juice.
- Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, chopped green onions, and diced hard-boiled eggs (if using).
- Add the Mayo: Gently fold in mayonnaise until the salad looks creamy and well-coated.
- Add the Crackers Last: Just before serving, crush the saltines and fold them into the salad. Mix gently—some large cracker pieces should remain for texture.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cracker Salad
- Add Crackers Right Before Serving: The key to success! This keeps them from getting soggy.
- Use Paper Towels: Patting tomatoes dry helps maintain crunch.
- Mix Gently: Don’t overmix or the crackers will turn mushy.
- Serve Immediately: This dish doesn’t improve over time—enjoy it fresh!
Variations to Try
- Add Bacon: For a smoky BLT-style twist.
- Mix in Herbs: Fresh dill, parsley, or basil brighten the flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Add Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or crumbled feta is delicious.
What to Serve With Georgia Cracker Salad
This salad is a natural fit for Southern-style meals. Serve it alongside:
- Fried chicken
- Pulled pork sandwiches
- Barbecue ribs
- Fresh summer vegetables
Or enjoy it all on its own as a light lunch on a warm day!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding crackers too early: They’ll lose their crunch.
- Using watery tomatoes: Always seed and dry them first.
- Overmixing: Gentle folds keep the salad fluffy and textured.
Georgia Cracker Salad Recipe
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 35–40 saltine crackers (about 2 cups), coarsely crushed
- 1 large tomato, finely diced (about 1 cup)
- ¼ cup scallions, finely chopped
- 2 large hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1½ cups mayonnaise
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, scallions, and eggs.
- Fold in the mayonnaise until evenly mixed.
- Just before serving, gently fold in the crushed saltine crackers.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately for the perfect crunchy texture.