Classic Wedge Salad is like a crisp, refreshing hug on a plate. Picture this: a vibrant iceberg wedge, dressed in creamy goodness, adorned with colorful veggies, and kissed by crunchy toppings that make your taste buds dance. It’s the kind of dish that instantly elevates your dinner table from mundane to magnificent, all while maintaining an effortless charm.

Now, let me take you back to my childhood. I remember family gatherings where my relatives would argue over who made the best dressing for their wedge salads. It was a light-hearted competition that filled the air with laughter and tantalizing aromas. Whether it was summer barbecues or cozy holiday dinners, this salad always found its way into our hearts—and onto our plates—making every occasion feel just a bit more special.

Ingredients for Classic Wedge Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Iceberg Lettuce: Choose a firm head of iceberg; its crispness is essential for that classic wedge experience.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for vibrant red or yellow cherry tomatoes; they add color and sweetness to your salad.
• Cucumber: A cool cucumber brings freshness; pick one that’s firm with no soft spots for ideal crunch.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion provides a zesty bite; soak in cold water first to mellow its sharpness.
• Blue Cheese Crumbles: The tangy flavor of blue cheese adds depth; feel free to substitute with feta if desired.
• Ranch Dressing: A creamy dressing that ties everything together; buy pre-made or whip up your own version.
• Bacon Bits (Turkey): For that smoky flavor without pork, use crispy turkey bacon bits as an excellent alternative.

For the Sauce:

• Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a tangy sweetness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

this recipe

How to Make Classic Wedge Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Lettuce

Begin by cutting the iceberg lettuce into quarters. Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt and pat dry gently with paper towels.

Step 2: Slice the Veggies

Dice the cherry tomatoes and cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion and soak it in cold water while you prepare everything else.

Step 3: Assemble the Wedges

On each plate, arrange one quarter of iceberg lettuce as your base. Layer on diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onions for vibrant color.

Step 4: Add Toppings

Generously sprinkle blue cheese crumbles over each wedge along with turkey bacon bits for crunchiness.

Step 5: Drizzle with Dressing

Drizzle ranch dressing generously over each wedge. If you’re feeling fancy, add a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra zing!

Step 6: Serve

Transfer to the dining table with style! Cut through the wedges as needed or let everyone dig in whole—either way, enjoy every crispy bite!

This Classic Wedge Salad not only delights visually but also provides an incredible balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create a delicious Classic Wedge Salad, start by prepping your ingredients before diving in. Chop your lettuce, prepare your dressing, and arrange toppings first. This sequence keeps everything fresh and ensures you assemble your salad without a hitch.

Add Your Touch

Don’t hesitate to swap out ingredients! Add crumbled feta instead of blue cheese or toss in some cherry tomatoes for extra color. You can also experiment with different dressings—try a tangy balsamic vinaigrette to shake things up.

Storing & Reheating

To maintain freshness, store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. For best results, consume within two days. Avoid reheating as this is best enjoyed cold and crisp straight from the fridge.

I once made this Classic Wedge Salad for a family gathering, and my aunt declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Who knew lettuce could bring such joy?

FAQs:

What is a Classic Wedge Salad made of?

A Classic Wedge Salad consists of a crisp wedge of iceberg lettuce, typically topped with creamy dressings like blue cheese or ranch. You can enhance the flavor with diced tomatoes, crispy chicken, or turkey bits instead of bacon for added protein. This salad offers a refreshing crunch and can be customized to fit your taste preferences while maintaining its classic charm.

How do I prepare the dressing for my Classic Wedge Salad?

To prepare the dressing for your Classic Wedge Salad, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and a splash of lemon juice for freshness. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to taste. For a healthier option, consider using Greek yogurt as a base. Whisk all ingredients until smooth for a creamy dressing that pairs perfectly with the fresh lettuce wedge.

Can I make Classic Wedge Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make certain components of your Classic Wedge Salad ahead of time. Prepare the dressing in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, cut the iceberg lettuce into wedges and add your toppings like diced tomatoes and turkey. This ensures that the salad remains fresh and crunchy when served.

What toppings can I add to my Classic Wedge Salad?

For a delicious twist on your Classic Wedge Salad, consider adding toppings such as diced avocados, sliced cucumbers, or even crumbled feta cheese. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can elevate the flavor profile. You can also add grilled chicken or turkey for protein. These additions enhance both texture and taste while keeping the salad light and satisfying.

Conclusion for Classic Wedge Salad:

The Classic Wedge Salad is a timeless dish that combines simplicity with delicious flavors. By using fresh iceberg lettuce and customizable toppings like chicken or turkey, you create a satisfying meal suitable for any occasion. The creamy dressing enhances every bite and adds richness without overpowering the fresh ingredients. Whether served as an appetizer or side dish, this salad remains a favorite among many culinary enthusiasts. Enjoy making this delightful salad at home!

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Classic Wedge Salad

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Classic Wedge Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines crisp iceberg lettuce with creamy ranch dressing, tangy blue cheese, and vibrant vegetables. This iconic salad is quick to prepare and allows for customization, making it perfect for any occasion. Serve it as an eye-catching appetizer or side dish that will impress your guests with its bold flavors and textures.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 head iceberg lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (or feta)
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup turkey bacon bits (crispy)
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cut the iceberg lettuce into quarters and rinse under cold water. Pat dry gently.
2. Dice the cherry tomatoes and cucumber. Soak the sliced red onion in cold water for a few minutes.
3. On each plate, place a wedge of lettuce as a base. Top with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and drained red onion.
4. Sprinkle blue cheese crumbles and turkey bacon bits generously over each wedge.
5. Drizzle ranch dressing over each wedge; add balsamic vinegar if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy freshness!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No cook
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 wedge (150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Customize your salad by adding toppings like avocado or grilled chicken for extra flavor. For a healthier dressing option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in your ranch dressing.