Crisp and Refreshing Chopped Wedge Salad: A Classic Twist on a Timeless Favorite

Indulge in the ultimate salad experience with this tantalizing Chopped Wedge Salad. Combining the crispness of iceberg and romaine lettuce with the savory goodness of bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy blue cheese dressing, this salad is a feast for the senses. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish or a light meal on its own, this Chopped Wedge Salad is sure to impress. Get ready to elevate your salad game and savor every crunchy, flavorful bite!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Before we embark on this culinary journey, let’s address some common queries about this delightful Chopped Wedge Salad:

Q: Can I use pre-cut lettuce instead of chopping it myself? A: While pre-cut lettuce can save time, it’s best to chop the lettuce just before serving to ensure maximum freshness and crunchiness. However, if you’re short on time, pre-cut lettuce can be a convenient option.

Q: Is there a substitute for buttermilk in the dressing? A: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by combining regular milk with lemon juice or white vinegar. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with enough milk to make 1 cup, then let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time? A: Absolutely! The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may separate slightly during storage.

Q: Can I add additional toppings to the salad? A: Yes, feel free to customize the salad with your favorite toppings! Some delicious additions include avocado slices, hard-boiled eggs, red onion, or croutons for added crunch.

Now, let’s gather our ingredients and prepare to indulge in the crisp, refreshing flavors of this Chopped Wedge Salad.

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 Salad Ingredients

Core, quarter, and chop the iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
Core and chop the romaine lettuce heart into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.
Halve the cherry tomatoes.
Chop the fresh chives.

2. Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, half of the crumbled blue cheese, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and chopped chives.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix until well combined and creamy. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.

3. Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped iceberg and romaine lettuce.
Add the crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped chives.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.

4. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the remaining crumbled blue cheese over the top of the salad.
Garnish with additional chopped chives, if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy the crisp, refreshing flavors of this Chopped Wedge Salad.

Cook Notes and Variations:

For added crunch, you can sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds over the salad before serving.
If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can substitute it with crumbled feta, goat cheese, or shredded Parmesan.

Keto Version:

To make a keto-friendly version of this salad, you can use a low-carb dressing made with mayonnaise, sour cream, and crumbled blue cheese. Omit the buttermilk and Worcestershire sauce, as they contain added sugars. Substitute the cherry tomatoes with sliced cucumber or avocado for a lower-carb option.

Low-Carb Version:

Follow the keto version substitutions mentioned above, but you can also reduce the amount of cherry tomatoes used or substitute them with diced bell peppers or radishes for a lower-carb alternative.

In conclusion, Chopped Wedge Salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crisp lettuce, savory bacon, juicy tomatoes, and creamy blue cheese dressing, it’s a flavor-packed sensation that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish or a light meal on its own, this salad is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.

So, gather your ingredients, chop your lettuce, and get ready to enjoy the crisp, refreshing flavors of this delightful Chopped Wedge Salad. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Bon appétit!