About This Recipe
The Chopped Wedge Salad is a modern variation of the classic wedge salad. While the traditional version features a quarter head of iceberg lettuce served as a wedge, this chopped interpretation maintains the same core ingredients but presents them in a more accessible, pre-chopped format. It retains the crisp texture and signature flavors while making the salad easier to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe provides a straightforward approach to a restaurant-style salad. The combination of crisp lettuce, savory bacon, ripe tomatoes, and rich dressing creates a balanced dish with contrasting textures. Its preparation is simple and requires no cooking beyond the bacon. The salad serves as a reliable side dish or a lighter main course.
Ingredients
- 1 head iceberg lettuce
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced or chopped
- 1/2 cup blue cheese dressing
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
- Chives, chopped (for garnish)
Step by Step Instructions
- Remove any outer wilted leaves from the head of iceberg lettuce. Rinse the head under cold water and pat it dry.
- Place the head of lettuce on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut the lettuce in half through the core.
- Cut each half again to create quarters. Remove the core from each quarter by making a diagonal cut.
- Chop the lettuce quarters into bite-sized pieces. Transfer the chopped lettuce to a large salad bowl.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and red onion to the bowl with the lettuce.
- Pour the blue cheese dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Transfer the dressed salad to serving plates. Top with crumbled bacon, blue cheese crumbles, and a sprinkle of chopped chives.
- Serve immediately.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Iceberg lettuce is specified for its crisp texture and mild flavor, which are characteristic of a wedge salad. Romaine lettuce can be used as a substitute, but it will alter the texture and flavor profile.
What is a good substitute for blue cheese?
For the dressing, a ranch dressing can be used. For the crumbles, feta cheese offers a similar salty, tangy profile, though the flavor will be distinct.
Is the bacon necessary?
Bacon is a traditional ingredient in a wedge salad, contributing a savory, salty element. It can be omitted for a vegetarian version.
You Must Know
Ensure the iceberg lettuce is thoroughly dried after washing to prevent the dressing from becoming watery. The salad is best assembled and served immediately after adding the dressing to maintain the crispness of the lettuce. For food safety, cooked bacon should be handled and stored properly before crumbling.
Storage Tips
Undressed, chopped lettuce can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. The dressing should be stored separately in its own airtight container. Assembled salad with dressing does not store well and will become soggy. Cooked bacon crumbles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.