Classic Wedge Salad Recipe

This Classic Wedge Salad is a simple yet delicious recipe featuring crisp iceberg lettuce, creamy blue cheese dressing, crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy croutons, and crumbled blue cheese. It’s the perfect side dish or light meal, bursting with bold flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it at a steakhouse-style dinner, a backyard BBQ, or as a quick lunch, this salad is easy to make and packed with protein and fresh ingredients. Try this restaurant-quality wedge salad at home in just minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of iceberg lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 1 cup croutons
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1 cup blue cheese dressing or ranch dressing (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper (or to taste)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Lettuce: Remove any wilted outer leaves from the iceberg lettuce. Cut the head into quarters and trim off any tough stems. Rinse each wedge gently under cold water to remove any hidden dirt, then pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Assemble the Salad: Place a lettuce wedge on a plate. Drizzle generously with dressing, ensuring it coats the layers of the lettuce.
3. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the quartered cherry tomatoes, chopped bacon, crumbled blue cheese, hard-boiled eggs, and croutons over the wedge.
4. Finish and Serve: Repeat for the remaining wedges and garnish each with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Tips

• For extra flavor, chill the iceberg lettuce before cutting—it makes for a crispier salad.
• Use high-quality blue cheese dressing for a richer taste.
• Cook bacon until extra crispy for the best texture contrast.
• Drizzle dressing over the wedge before adding toppings to help everything stick.

Variations and Substitutions

• Dressing Swap: Try ranch, balsamic glaze, or a creamy garlic dressing instead of blue cheese.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal.
• Different Cheese: Swap blue cheese for feta, goat cheese, or shredded Parmesan.
• Healthier Option: Use turkey bacon and a lighter dressing.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! You can prep the toppings in advance and store them separately. Assemble just before serving for the best texture.

What can I use instead of iceberg lettuce? Romaine hearts or butter lettuce work well, but iceberg provides the best crunch.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy? Dress the wedges just before serving and store all ingredients separately if making ahead.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a juicy steak for a classic steakhouse meal.
• Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a refreshing, light lunch.
• Enjoy as an appetizer before a hearty pasta dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal prep.
• Crunchy & Flavorful: The crisp iceberg, savory bacon, and tangy blue cheese create the perfect balance.
• Customizable: Easily adjust toppings and dressing to your preference.
• Restaurant-Quality: Brings a classic steakhouse salad right to your table!