Deluxe Salad with French Fries

Ingredients:

• 3 cups frozen curly fries (about 250 g)
• 4 strips of bacon
• 1 tbsp. yellow mustard
• 3 tablespoons chopped pickles + a little brine from the jar
• 1.5 tbsp ketchup
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1.5 tbsp. l. malt vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced ​​red onion
• 2 romaine lettuce hearts, torn into pieces
• 1/4 cup grated sharp cheddar
• Toasted sesame seeds, for sprinkling (optional)

Preparation:

1. Bake the fries according to package directions until crispy. Let cool.
2. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until crisp, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Let cool slightly, then break up the bacon into pieces.
3. Prepare the dressing:
   
   In a large bowl, combine the mustard, pickles, a splash of brine, ketchup, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt and pepper to taste. Add the fries, bacon, tomatoes, red onion, Romaine, and Cheddar to the bowl with the dressing and toss. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Divide the salad among serving bowls. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.