The wedge salad is a timeless classic that captures the essence of a traditional steakhouse. Crisp, refreshing, and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect accompaniment to any hearty meal. This recipe brings together the best ingredients for a truly delightful experience.
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The Lowdown
Wedge salad is a beloved dish that combines simplicity with bold flavors, making it a staple on steakhouse menus. The combination of a crisp iceberg lettuce wedge topped with creamy dressing, crunchy bacon, and tangy blue cheese creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. This recipe stands out because it highlights fresh, quality ingredients while allowing for customization based on personal preferences. Whether enjoyed as a side or a light main course, the wedge salad has an impressive presentation that elevates any dining experience. This version embraces the classic elements while also offering flexibility to suit your taste. The visual appeal of the wedge salad, coupled with its satisfying crunch and rich toppings, makes it a favorite at gatherings and dinner parties.
Get Your Equipment Ready
To prepare this wedge salad, gather the following equipment:
- A sharp knife for cutting the iceberg lettuce
- A cutting board for safe chopping
- A large bowl for mixing the dressing
- Measuring spoons for accurate ingredient portions
- A serving platter for an elegant presentation
- Optional: a whisk for emulsifying the dressing if desired. Having these tools on hand will streamline the preparation process and ensure you achieve the best results.
What I Wish Someone Had Told Me
When making a wedge salad, consider the following tips to enhance your dish: Use fresh iceberg lettuce for the best crunch, and ensure it is washed thoroughly and dried before cutting. For the dressing, a classic combination of buttermilk, sour cream, and mayonnaise works beautifully, but feel free to adjust the ingredients for your taste. If you prefer a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for sour cream. As you prepare bacon, ensure it is cooked until crispy for added texture. Always handle raw meat and eggs safely; wash hands and utensils after contact. Food safety is crucial, so remember to keep perishable ingredients refrigerated until you're ready to serve to prevent spoilage.
Recipe Card
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Ingredients
- 1 head of iceberg lettuce (cut into wedges)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- chives for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the dressing. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the crumbled blue cheese, reserving a small amount for garnish later.
- Cut the head of iceberg lettuce into wedges. Rinse and dry thoroughly to ensure crispness.
- Arrange the wedges on a serving platter and generously drizzle the dressing over each wedge.
- Top each wedge with crumbled bacon and additional blue cheese, followed by a sprinkle of black pepper.
- Garnish with chopped chives for a pop of color. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep lettuce wedges separate to maintain their crispness.
Riffs on the Original
To customize your wedge salad, consider adding a variety of toppings beyond the traditional bacon and blue cheese. Cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and sweetness, while sliced red onions can provide additional flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes can spice things up. You can also incorporate different cheese varieties, such as feta or Parmesan, for a unique twist. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and consider adding chickpeas or avocado for added protein. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to adapt the wedge salad to suit your preferences.
Serving It Up
Present the wedge salad by placing each lettuce wedge on a plate and drizzling it generously with dressing. Top with crumbled blue cheese and crispy bacon. For an elegant touch, garnish with freshly cracked black pepper or chopped chives. This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats and is an excellent choice for barbecues or dinner parties. Serve chilled for the ultimate refreshing experience and enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors and textures with each bite.
Damage Control
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| The dressing is too thick. | If the dressing seems overly thick, gradually add a splash of milk or buttermilk to achieve your desired consistency. Stir well until fully incorporated. |
| The bacon is soggy. | To ensure crispy bacon, cook it in a single layer in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Drain on paper towels to remove excess grease, which will help maintain its crunchiness. |
| The lettuce is browning. | To prevent browning, handle the lettuce gently and serve immediately after preparation. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. |
Reader Q&A Session
Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, the dressing can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of blue cheese?
Feta cheese or goat cheese can be excellent alternatives to blue cheese.
