Name: Classic Wedge Salad with Creamy Blue Cheese Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 head Iceberg Lettuce (Keep the core intact for stability); 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (Feel free to swap with diced cucumbers); 1/2 cup Red Onion (Use green onions for a milder flavor); 6 slices Bacon (Opt for crispy turkey bacon for a leaner choice); 2 tablespoons Fresh Chives (Parsley can serve as an alternative); 1/2 cup Blue Cheese (Substitute with Gorgonzola or Roquefort if desired); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Replace with Greek yogurt for a lighter twist); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (Plain yogurt is a suitable stand-in); 1/4 cup Buttermilk (Use regular milk if preferred); 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice (Vinegar is a substitute if out of lemons); 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Use powdered garlic if needed)

As I prepared for another bustling weeknight dinner, the thought of whipping up my go-to Classic Wedge Salad floated to the top of my mind. This visually stunning dish starts with crisp iceberg lettuce, drizzled with a homemade blue cheese dressing that adds creamy richness, while crispy bacon and fresh cherry tomatoes provide delightful bursts of flavor. Not only is this the best wedge salad recipe for those warm evenings, but it’s also quick to assemble and can easily be customized to fit various tastes—perfect for satisfying guests or a family craving homemade goodness. Whether you serve it alongside grilled meats or enjoy it solo, this classic brings a touch of nostalgia to the table. Ready to create a salad that’s both delicious and memorable? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this Classic Wedge Salad irresistible?

Vibrant Colors: The striking presentation of crisp iceberg lettuce and colorful toppings makes this salad a visual feast, perfect for impressing dinner guests.

Creamy Indulgence: Homemade blue cheese dressing adds a luscious, rich layer of flavor that elevates the crispness of the lettuce and bacon, creating a treat for your taste buds.

Quick & Easy: This recipe is a breeze to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, without compromising on taste.

Customizable: With substitution options for cheese and toppings, you can easily tailor this salad to suit various dietary preferences or elevate it with new flavors, just like in my Cheddar Sour Salad.

Crowd-Pleaser: Its classic appeal makes it a universal favorite, ensuring everyone at the table will leave satisfied and asking for seconds, just like my famous Peanut Butter Cookies.

Classic Wedge Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

Iceberg Lettuce – A crisp foundation essential for maintaining the wedge shape; keep the core intact for stability.
Cherry Tomatoes – They add freshness and juicy bursts; feel free to swap them with diced cucumbers for a different texture.
Red Onion – Offers a sharp kick and vibrant color; use green onions for a milder flavor.
Bacon – Provides a crunchy, savory dimension; opt for crispy turkey bacon for a leaner choice.
Fresh Chives – Adds subtle onion flavor; parsley can serve as a nice garnish alternative.

For the Blue Cheese Dressing

Blue Cheese – A rich, tangy game-changer; substitute with Gorgonzola or Roquefort for varying taste experiences.
Mayonnaise – The creamy base of the dressing; replace with Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
Sour Cream – Contributes tanginess to the dressing; plain yogurt is a suitable stand-in.
Buttermilk (or Milk) – Ensures a drizzle-able consistency; use regular milk for a milder dressing if preferred.
Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the overall flavor; vinegar is a viable substitute if you’re out of lemons.
Garlic (minced) – Provides aromatic depth; replace with powdered garlic if needed, just adjust the amount.

Embrace the joy of making this Classic Wedge Salad and get ready for a delightful culinary experience that’s bound to please!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Wedge Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ½ cup sour cream, ¼ cup buttermilk, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Season the mixture with salt, onion powder, white pepper, granulated garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in half of the crumbled blue cheese and 2 tablespoons of chopped chives for extra flavor. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 2: Prepare the Lettuce
Take a firm head of iceberg lettuce and, using a sharp knife, cut it into wedges, aiming for four to six wedges per head. Leave the core intact at the base of each wedge to maintain the structural integrity. Rinse the wedges under cold water and gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel, ensuring the wedges are crisp and ready for serving.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad
On a large serving platter, arrange the crisp iceberg wedges in a fan-like pattern for an appealing presentation. Lightly season the wedges with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor. Drizzle half of the prepared dressing over the lettuce wedges, allowing it to cascade down the sides and coat the lettuce nicely.

Step 4: Add Toppings
Top each wedge with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and generous crumbles of crispy bacon. Sprinkle the remaining blue cheese over the salad for that decadent finish, and garnish with additional chives for a touch of color and flavor. The Classic Wedge Salad is now visually stunning and ready to delight your guests.

Step 5: Serve Immediately
Serve the Classic Wedge Salad right away for the best experience, ensuring the lettuce remains crisp and fresh. Provide the extra dressing on the side for those who might want an additional drizzle. Enjoy this delicious side dish as a complement to your main course or as a satisfying standalone treat!

Tips for the Best Classic Wedge Salad

Crisp Bacon: Ensure your bacon is perfectly crispy for that delightful textural contrast. Cook it in advance and let it cool to maintain crunchiness.
Chill the Dressing: Allowing the dressing to chill for a few hours, or even overnight, enhances the flavors significantly. Store it in an airtight container for freshness.
Perfectly Cut Wedges: When cutting the iceberg lettuce, preserve the core to help the wedges maintain their shape and make serving easier.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap the blue cheese for Gorgonzola or feta, but remember that stronger cheeses may overpower the dish—balance is key in your Classic Wedge Salad!
Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh produce for the best flavor. Rinse and dry the lettuce and toppings thoroughly to maintain crispness.
Season to Taste: Don’t be shy about seasoning your salad! A sprinkle of salt and pepper on the wedges enhances their natural taste dramatically.

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Wedge Salad components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the blue cheese dressing up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; chilling it allows the flavors to deepen, resulting in a dressing that’s just as delicious when served. The crispy bacon can be cooked and stored in a separate container for up to 5 days, ensuring it stays crunchy. When you’re ready to assemble your salad, simply cut the iceberg lettuce into wedges and arrange them on a platter, topping with the prepared ingredients and the chilled dressing just before serving. This approach saves time on busy weeknights while allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality salad at home!

What to Serve with Classic Wedge Salad

The Classic Wedge Salad is a delightful start, but pairing it with the right dishes transforms it into a memorable meal.

Grilled Chicken: Tender, juicy grilled chicken not only complements the salad’s freshness but also adds a satisfying protein punch, making it a complete meal.
Ranch-Style Burgers: The rich, savory flavors of a classic burger enhance the applewood-smoked bacon in the salad, creating a mouthwatering combination that satisfies all cravings.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables caramelizes their natural sweetness, offering a textural contrast and balanced earthy flavor to the crispness of the wedge salad.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread serves as a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing of the wedge salad, perfect for moppping up any leftover sauce.
Cola or Ginger Ale: A chilled can of cola or a refreshing ginger ale complements the rich flavors of the salad while adding a sweet and fizzy contrast to each bite.
Lemon Sorbet: This light and refreshing dessert cleanses the palate after your savory meal, serving as a perfect finish to end the dining experience on a sweet note.

Classic Wedge Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs with these fun variations!

Cheese Swap: Substitute blue cheese with feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Each cheese offers a unique flavor profile, elevating the salad in delightful ways.
Lighten Up: For a healthier dressing, consider a buttermilk-herb ranch instead of blue cheese. It provides a creamy texture while keeping it lighter, perfect for a fresh dining experience.
Add Greens: Toss in some arugula or spinach for added nutrition and complexity. These greens introduce a peppery flavor that enhances the overall salad experience and packs in extra vitamins.
Kick it Up: For an exciting heat level, add jalapeño slices or crushed red pepper flakes sprinkled on top. This spicy addition balances beautifully with the creamy dressing.
Texture Boost: Mix in some toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch and rich flavor. Nuts perfectly complement the creaminess of the dressing, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Creamy Alternatives: Swap mayonnaise for cottage cheese for a lighter dressing option. This swap will create a creamy base without the extra calories, perfect for guilt-free indulgence.
Veggie Swap: Instead of cherry tomatoes, try adding diced cucumbers. This change brings a refreshing crunch, perfect for those who prefer a milder flavor in their salads.
Herb Delight: Experiment by incorporating fresh dill or parsley for a fragrant herbal note. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can add a bright finish that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Feel inspired by these variations to create your version of the Classic Wedge Salad! And if you’re looking for more salad inspiration, don’t miss out on my delicious Costco Chicken Salad or try the charming Italian Muffuletta Sandwich for a perfect side pairing!

Storage Tips for Classic Wedge Salad

Fridge: Store the assembled salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but for optimal freshness, keep components separate until serving to maintain lettuce crispness.

Dressing: The homemade blue cheese dressing can be kept in the fridge for 5-7 days. Store it in an airtight container, allowing flavors to deepen.

Lettuce: If you have leftover wedges, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent wilting, and consume within 2 days for the best crunch.

Reheating: Crispy bacon can be reheated in the oven or a skillet briefly before adding to your salad again, ensuring it remains crunchy and delicious.

Classic Wedge Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best iceberg lettuce for my Classic Wedge Salad?
When selecting iceberg lettuce, look for heads that feel heavy for their size, with crisp, bright-green outer leaves that are free from dark spots or browning. The core should be intact, indicating freshness and structure.

What’s the best way to store my Classic Wedge Salad?
To keep your salad fresh, store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The lettuce will last for about 2 days, while the homemade blue cheese dressing can be kept for 5-7 days. Assemble the salad just before serving for the best crispness!

Can I freeze the Blue Cheese Dressing for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze the dressing, pour it into an airtight container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and stir well before serving.

What should I do if my bacon isn’t crispy enough?
If your bacon isn’t crispy, no worries! You can cook it in a pan over medium heat, flipping occasionally until it turns golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, bake it in an oven set to 400°F (200°C) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for about 15-20 minutes, checking for doneness. Crispy bacon is key for the best texture in your Classic Wedge Salad!

Can I make a healthier version of this salad?
Very! To lighten up your Classic Wedge Salad, you can substitute the blue cheese with feta or goat cheese, and replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt in the dressing. Additionally, using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon offers a leaner alternative while maintaining that delightful crunch.

Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Be mindful of common allergens such as dairy in the blue cheese and mayo. For those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, you can opt for dairy-free yogurt and omit the cheese entirely, or substitute with non-dairy cheese options. Always check labels if you’re using packaged ingredients!