Venture into the world of salads with a twist! The classic wedge salad is not just a dish; it’s an experience. With its crisp iceberg lettuce, creamy dressing, and a sprinkle of bacon, it’s a timeless favorite that’s both simple and sophisticated.
Why This Recipe Works
- The iceberg lettuce provides a refreshing crunch that’s unmatched by other greens.
- Homemade blue cheese dressing adds a rich, tangy flavor that elevates the salad.
- Crispy bacon bits offer a smoky contrast to the cool, creamy elements.
- It’s incredibly versatile, allowing for endless variations to suit any taste.
- Perfect for entertaining, it’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 head iceberg lettuce, cut into 4 wedges
- 1 cup blue cheese dressing (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tbsp chives, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Salad plates
Instructions
Prepare the Lettuce Wedges
Start by removing any outer leaves from the iceberg lettuce that look wilted or damaged. Cut the head of lettuce into four equal wedges, ensuring each piece has a bit of the core to hold it together. Rinse the wedges under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the dressing sticks properly.
Make the Blue Cheese Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of crumbled blue cheese, 2 tablespoons of buttermilk, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth but still has small chunks of blue cheese for texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Assemble the Salad
Place each lettuce wedge on a salad plate. Drizzle generously with the blue cheese dressing, ensuring each wedge is well-coated. Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and bacon bits over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve Immediately
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right after assembling. The contrast between the cold, crisp lettuce and the warm, crispy bacon is part of what makes this dish so special.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra crispy lettuce wedge, chill the iceberg lettuce in the refrigerator for an hour before cutting and serving. If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can substitute it with ranch or Caesar dressing. To make this salad a meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp on top. Always use a sharp knife to cut the lettuce to prevent bruising the leaves. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the blue cheese for gorgonzola or feta for a different flavor profile.
- Add avocado slices or hard-boiled eggs for extra protein and creaminess.
- Use pancetta instead of bacon for an Italian twist.
- Incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Try a balsamic glaze drizzle for a sweet and tangy finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! The blue cheese dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using to recombine any separated ingredients.
How do I prevent the lettuce from browning?
To keep your lettuce wedges looking fresh, avoid cutting them too far in advance and store any unused portions in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel.
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
While iceberg is traditional for its crisp texture, you can experiment with romaine or butter lettuce for a different take on the classic wedge salad.
Summary
The classic wedge salad is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. With its crisp lettuce, creamy dressing, and savory toppings, it’s a dish that’s both elegant and easy to make. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to impress.
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