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Chopped Wedge Salad

Chopped Wedge Salad recipe

healty meal, low carbs meals, keto meal

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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!

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