Georgia Cracker Salad is a classic Southern-inspired salad made with crispy saltine crackers, juicy tomatoes, creamy mayonnaise, and fresh green onions. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and full of creamy, crunchy texture. Perfect for summer cookouts, family gatherings, potlucks, and quick side dishes!

Preparation & Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Chill Time: 15–20 minutes (optional)
  • Total Time: 10–30 minutes
  • Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 sleeve (about 40) saltine crackers, coarsely crushed
  • 2 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup green onions, finely sliced
  • 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 2 tablespoons cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash and dice the tomatoes into small pieces. Drain excess liquid if they are very juicy.

2. Crush the Crackers: Place the saltine crackers in a large bowl and crush them into bite-sized pieces. Avoid crushing them into fine crumbs.

3. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, garlic powder, black pepper, and a little salt. Mix until smooth.

4. Combine Ingredients: Add diced tomatoes, green onions, parsley, and pickle relish to the dressing. Stir gently to combine.

5. Add the Crackers: Fold in the crushed saltine crackers just before serving so they retain their crunch.

6. Add Optional Bacon: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the salad if desired.

7. Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning. Serve immediately for the best crunchy texture.

Nut Information & Allergens

  • Tree Nuts: None in the standard recipe.
  • Peanuts: None.
  • Almonds: None.
  • Walnuts: None.
  • Gluten: Contains gluten from saltine crackers.
  • Dairy: Usually dairy-free, but check cracker labels.
  • Eggs: May contain eggs in mayonnaise.
  • Soy: Some mayonnaise and crackers may contain soy ingredients.

Allergy Note: Always check packaged ingredient labels for cross-contamination and hidden allergens. Use certified gluten-free crackers if needed.

Estimated Nutrition Information

Per serving (approximately, based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 250–320 kcal
  • Protein: 4–6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18–25 g
  • Fat: 18–24 g
  • Fiber: 1–2 g
  • Sugar: 3–5 g
  • Sodium: 450–650 mg

Nutrition varies depending on the mayonnaise, crackers, and portion sizes.

Tips for the Best Georgia Cracker Salad

  • Add crackers immediately before serving to prevent sogginess.
  • Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • Drain excess tomato juice to keep the salad creamy.
  • Start with less mayonnaise and add more as needed.
  • Use freshly ground black pepper for extra flavor.
  • For extra protein, add chopped hard-boiled eggs.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: What is Georgia Cracker Salad?

It’s a traditional Southern-style salad made with saltine crackers, tomatoes, mayonnaise, and simple seasonings.

Q2: Can I make Georgia Cracker Salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead of time, but add the crackers just before serving.

Q3: Can I use Ritz crackers instead of saltines?

Yes! Ritz crackers work well and give the salad a richer, buttery flavor.

Q4: Can I add boiled eggs?

Absolutely! Chopped hard-boiled eggs are a traditional addition in many versions.

Q5: Can I add bacon?

Yes! Crispy bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor.

Q6: Is Georgia Cracker Salad gluten-free?

No. Regular saltine crackers contain wheat. Use gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free version.

Q7: Is this salad vegetarian?

Yes, if you use vegetarian mayonnaise and crackers without animal-derived ingredients.

Q8: How long does it last in the refrigerator?

For best quality, eat immediately. If stored, refrigerate promptly in an airtight container and consume within 1–2 days, although the crackers will become soft.

Q9: What can I serve with this salad?

It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fried fish, barbecue ribs, roasted vegetables, and burgers.

Q10: Can I make it without mayonnaise?

Yes! Try plain Greek yogurt or a mixture of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Georgia Cracker Salad alongside:

  • Grilled chicken or turkey
  • Southern fried fish
  • BBQ chicken or ribs
  • Grilled shrimp
  • Roasted vegetables

Final Note: The secret to delicious Georgia Cracker Salad is keeping the crackers slightly crunchy while allowing them to absorb the creamy tomato dressing. Serve fresh and enjoy!