Craving that classic steakhouse salad experience but want it easier to eat and perfect for any occasion? Our iceberg wedge salad chopped recipe takes all the beloved elements of the traditional wedge – crisp lettuce, smoky bacon, juicy tomatoes, and a rich blue cheese dressing – and transforms them into a convenient, vibrant dish. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet sensational salad that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.
Why This Chopped Iceberg Wedge Salad is a Must-Try
This isn’t just any salad; it’s a culinary experience designed for maximum enjoyment with minimal fuss. Here’s why our iceberg wedge salad chopped recipe deserves a spot on your menu:
- Effortless Elegance: Enjoy all the sophisticated flavors of a classic wedge salad without the awkwardness of cutting a large wedge. Chopping the iceberg lettuce makes it picnic-friendly, potluck-perfect, and ideal for a casual weeknight dinner.
- Flavor Explosion: Each forkful delivers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes – the crunch of fresh iceberg, savory bacon, tangy blue cheese dressing, and sweet cherry tomatoes. It’s a symphony for your palate!
- Quick & Customizable: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, this salad comes together in a flash. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing for easy additions like grilled chicken or steak.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Chopped Iceberg Wedge Salad
Crafting the best iceberg wedge salad chopped starts with selecting quality ingredients. This delicious iceberg wedge salad chopped relies on a few notes that can elevate your salad from good to unforgettable.
Choosing the Best Iceberg Lettuce
One head of crisp iceberg lettuce is the star. Look for a firm, heavy head. Thoroughly washing and drying your lettuce is crucial to prevent a watery dressing. Chopping it into bite-sized pieces is the signature of this recipe, making it much easier to eat.
The Perfect Bacon & Blue Cheese Dressing
Eight slices of bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled, add irreplaceable smoky crunch. For the blue cheese dressing, two ounces (about 1/2 cup) of crumbled blue cheese (Roquefort, Gorgonzola, or Danish blue) provides that signature pungent, creamy flavor. The dressing base of mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk, brightened with white vinegar and garlic powder, creates a luxurious texture that clings beautifully to every piece of your iceberg wedge salad chopped.
Fresh Additions: Tomatoes, Onion & Chives
One cup of halved cherry tomatoes brings a burst of sweetness and vibrant color. A thinly sliced half red onion offers a sharp, zesty counterpoint (soak in ice water to mellow if preferred). Finally, a quarter cup of chopped fresh chives is an optional but highly recommended garnish, adding a delicate oniony note.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Easy Iceberg Wedge Salad Chopped
Making this delightful iceberg wedge salad chopped is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect outcome every time.
1. Prepare the Creamy Blue Cheese Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, white vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth. Stir in the crumbled blue cheese, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set aside.
2. Get Your Salad Components Ready
Wash and thoroughly dry the iceberg lettuce, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it once cooled.
3. Assemble Your Complete Iceberg Wedge Salad Chopped
In a large bowl, combine the chopped iceberg lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. This forms the fresh and crunchy base of your salad.
4. Dress, Garnish, and Serve
Just before serving, drizzle the prepared blue cheese dressing generously over the salad. Top with the crumbled crispy bacon and fresh chives (if using). Toss gently to ensure every piece is coated. This iceberg wedge salad chopped is always a winner. It pairs wonderfully with a hearty dish like Ultimate Slow Cooker Cabbage and Beef Soup.
Iceberg Wedge Salad Chopped
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, white vinegar, and garlic powder. Stir in the crumbled blue cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Prepare the salad components: Wash and thoroughly dry the iceberg lettuce. Chop into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion. Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped iceberg lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Dress and serve: Drizzle the blue cheese dressing over the salad. Top with crumbled bacon and fresh chives (if using). Toss gently just before serving, or serve dressing on the side.
Notes
Tips & Variations for Your Ultimate Iceberg Wedge Salad Chopped
This iceberg wedge salad chopped recipe is fantastic as is, but mastering the perfect iceberg wedge salad chopped involves a few ideas to make it even better or adapt it:
- Make Ahead Dressing: The blue cheese dressing can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Flavors often deepen with time. Whisk before serving.
- Storage Tips: If dressed, consume immediately to avoid soggy lettuce. For leftovers, store dressing separately. Undressed components last 1-2 days in the fridge; keep bacon separate for crunch.
- Add Protein: Transform this side into a meal by adding grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp.
- Blue Cheese Alternatives: If strong blue cheese isn’t for you, try a milder variety, crumbled goat cheese, or feta.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce in the dressing adds a subtle kick.
- Herb Variations: Finely chopped parsley or dill can also be lovely additions.
Perfect Serving Suggestions for Your Chopped Iceberg Wedge Salad
The versatility of this iceberg wedge salad chopped makes it a fantastic accompaniment to a wide array of dishes. Serving your iceberg wedge salad chopped is easy!
- Steakhouse Classic: The perfect partner for grilled steaks, burgers, or any robust meat dish.
- BBQ & Grilling Companion: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, ribs, or pulled pork for a refreshing contrast.
- Weeknight Dinner Side: Elevate a simple roasted chicken or baked fish with this vibrant and flavorful salad.
- Potlucks & Picnics: Its “chopped” nature makes it easy to transport and serve. Keep dressing separate until ready!
For another easy, comforting meal idea that might surprise you with its depth of flavor, check out our recipe for Crispy Baked Onion Ring Chips Without Parmesan: Your Ultimate Savory Snack!
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delectable Iceberg Wedge Salad Chopped!
There you have it – a magnificent iceberg wedge salad chopped that brings all the beloved flavors of a classic to your table in an accessible, delightful format. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a summer BBQ, or simply seeking a quick and satisfying side for a weeknight meal, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and ease. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, whisk up that creamy blue cheese dressing, and prepare to savor every crispy, savory, and utterly delicious bite. Enjoy!
Can I make the blue cheese dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the blue cheese dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What if I don’t like blue cheese?
You can substitute the blue cheese dressing with a ranch dressing, balsamic vinaigrette, or another creamy dressing of your choice.
How do I prevent the lettuce from getting soggy?
To prevent sogginess, make sure the lettuce is thoroughly dried before assembling the salad. Also, add the dressing just before serving, or serve it on the side.