Crunchy Wedge Salad

This timeless recipe for a classic wedge salad showcases crisp iceberg lettuce, ripe tomatoes, savory crumbled bacon, chives, and a simple, velvety homemade blue cheese dressing that will leave you yearning for more.

As someone who adores green salads—ranging from delicate, dressed spring lettuces to robust cobb salads—I find nothing more gratifying than indulging in the satisfying crunch of a classic iceberg wedge salad. Iceberg lettuce, akin to the white bread of lettuces, holds a special place in my heart. Its crunchiness, wateriness, and textured layers make it the perfect canvas for capturing every delectable morsel of bacon or tomato, especially when paired with a luscious homemade blue cheese dressing. This steakhouse-inspired salad elevates the humble iceberg lettuce to an utterly thrilling dining experience.

Ingredients for the Wedge Salad:

– Iceberg lettuce: Ensure it’s super fresh, extra crisp, and thoroughly chilled.

– Crumbled bacon: Cooked until crisp, then broken into delectable chunks.

– Tomatoes: Opt for sweet cherry or grape tomatoes, either whole or sliced for visual appeal.

– Chives: Adding a subtle onion essence without overpowering the salad.

– Fresh blue cheese: Sprinkled crumbles for that extra tangy punch.

Ingredients for the Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing:

To create an exceptional wedge salad, crafting your own blue cheese dressing is key. Here’s what you’ll need:

– Light sour cream

– Mayonnaise

– Buttermilk

– Red wine vinegar

– Worcestershire sauce

– Garlic salt

– Black pepper

– Blue cheese

– Chives

Steps to Prepare the Wedge Salad:

1. Begin by making the homemade blue cheese dressing. Combine all the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before drizzling it over the salad.

2. Fry the bacon in strips, then break it into smaller, flavorful pieces. Drain excess grease on a paper towel.

3. Cut the iceberg lettuce into wedges, discarding any limp outer leaves, and arrange them cut-side up on plates.

4. Assemble the salad by drizzling the homemade blue cheese dressing over each wedge. Top with bacon crumbles, chives, blue cheese chunks, and add tomato wedges to the plate. Finish with a sprinkle of black pepper.

Tips for Perfecting the Wedge Salad:

– Adjust the blue cheese consistency to your preference by mashing it for a smoother texture.

– To turn this into a main dish, consider adding 3 ounces of shredded rotisserie chicken breast or grilled salmon.

– Reserve a few striking blue-veined cheese pieces and chive strands for a decorative sprinkle on top. Freshly ground black pepper adds a delightful final touch.

Storage and Customization:

– The homemade blue cheese dressing can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, lasting 5-7 days.

– While variations can be tantalizing, incorporating additional toppings might deviate from the classic wedge salad recipe.

Additional Wedge Salad Toppings to Explore:

– Red onion

– Avocado

– Homemade croutons

– Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots

– Nuts

– Fried onion bits

– Hard-boiled eggs

– Pancetta instead of bacon

– Roasted tomatoes

– Substituting blue cheese dressing with ranch

Pair your wedge salad with a steakhouse-inspired dinner for an exquisite dining experience.

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