A chopped wedge salad is a modern twist on the classic wedge salad, making it easier to eat while retaining all the delicious flavors. This salad combines crisp lettuce, smoky bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a creamy blue cheese dressing that brings it all together. Perfect as a starter or a light meal, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 head iceberg lettuce, cored, quartered, and chopped
- 1 romaine lettuce heart, cored and chopped
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups blue cheese, crumbled and divided
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Lettuce:
- Wash and dry the iceberg lettuce and romaine lettuce heart. Core, quarter, and chop the iceberg lettuce. Chop the romaine lettuce heart. Combine both lettuces in a large salad bowl.
- Cook the Bacon:
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool. Once cooled, crumble the bacon and set aside.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth.
- Add the garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and chopped fresh chives. Stir to combine.
- Fold in 1 cup of the crumbled blue cheese, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for topping the salad. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and crumbled bacon to the bowl with the chopped lettuce. Toss to combine.
- Drizzle the salad with the prepared dressing, tossing gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates. Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of crumbled blue cheese and the 1/4 cup of chopped fresh chives on top for garnish. Serve immediately.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Add Protein: Turn this salad into a more substantial meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak slices.
- Cheese Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, feta or goat cheese can be used as a substitute.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add additional veggies like cucumber, red onion, or bell peppers.
- Dressing Options: For a lighter dressing, use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. You can also add a splash of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar for extra tang.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stir well before using.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the lettuce may wilt slightly after being dressed.
Q: Can I use store-bought dressing? A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought blue cheese dressing can be used.
Q: What can I serve with this salad? A: This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or as a side to a pasta dish. It’s also great alongside a crusty piece of bread or garlic bread.
Q: Can I use different types of lettuce? A: Yes, you can use any combination of lettuces you prefer. Romaine, butter lettuce, or even mixed greens work well in this salad.
Chopped Wedge Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-eat version of the classic wedge salad. With its creamy blue cheese dressing, crispy bacon, and juicy tomatoes, this salad is a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a main course, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Indulge in the crisp and creamy goodness of this Chopped Wedge Salad, a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and rich flavors. It’s an excellent choice for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant dinner parties. Enjoy this delightful salad and happy cooking!
