Name: Irresistibly Crisp Wedge Salad: A Nostalgic Classic Reimagined
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 48 min
Ingredients: 1 head Iceberg Lettuce (Choose heads that feel heavy and have bright green leaves.); 100 grams Blue Cheese (Can be swapped for feta for a lighter flavor.); 4 slices Bacon (For a vegetarian alternative, use crispy shallots.); 200 grams Tomatoes (Use ripe cherry or grape tomatoes for the best flavor.); 1/4 cup Red Onion (Substitute with green onions for a milder taste if preferred.); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Always use freshly cracked for that extra pop.); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Greek yogurt is a healthy alternative if preferred.); 1/4 cup Sour Cream (Mix in lemon juice for brightness and flavor.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Fresh-squeezed is always best.)

As I walked through the bustling farmers market, the crisp scent of fresh produce caught my attention, guiding me to the perfect head of iceberg lettuce. A refreshing wedge salad instantly sprang to mind—a nostalgic dish that’s embraced countless dinner tables for generations. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up this Classic Easy Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese and Bacon, elevating your meal with bursts of crunch and flavor. Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but it’s also wonderfully customizable, allowing you to add your favorite toppings. Whether you’re enjoying it as a vibrant side dish or a starter, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends! What toppings will you choose to make it uniquely yours?

Why is Wedge Salad So Irresistible?

Simplicity: The preparation is quick, taking just 10 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights.

Customizable: Create your own masterpiece! Swap blue cheese for feta, or use crispy shallots instead of bacon for a vegetarian twist.

Crowd-Pleaser: This vibrant salad is a hit at gatherings, pairing beautifully with grilled meats or hearty sides like Orzo Pasta Salad.

Fresh Ingredients: Crisp, fresh veggies and savory toppings deliver a punch of flavor that enlivens any meal.

Nostalgic Touch: It’s a revisit of a classic steakhouse dish, sure to evoke fond memories with every bite.

Indulge in the texture and taste that make this wedge salad a standout at your table!

Wedge Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

Iceberg Lettuce – A must for that signature crunch; choose heads that feel heavy and have bright green leaves.
Blue Cheese – Adds rich creaminess and tang; can be swapped for feta if you’re looking for a lighter flavor.
Bacon – Offers a delightful crunch and smoky taste; for a vegetarian alternative, consider using crispy shallots.
Tomatoes – Bring freshness and sweetness; use ripe cherry or grape tomatoes for the best flavor burst.
Red Onion – Adds a sharp bite; substitute with green onions for a milder taste if preferred.
Black Pepper – Enhances the overall flavor; always use freshly cracked for that extra pop.

For the Dressing

Mayonnaise – Acts as the creamy base for this wedge salad; Greek yogurt is a healthy alternative if you prefer.
Sour Cream – Provides extra creaminess and tanginess; mix in lemon juice for brightness and flavor.
Lemon Juice – Offers acidity that balances the creaminess of the dressing; fresh-squeezed is always best.

Get ready to create a refreshing wedge salad that’s bursting with flavor and easily tailored to your preferences!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Wedge Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Whisk together until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well blended. For best results, refrigerate this dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, making it extra delicious when drizzled over your wedge salad.

Step 2: Cook Bacon
Take your bacon and cut it into small pieces. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon for about 6–8 minutes, or until crispy and browned. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease. This step adds a delightful crunch and savory flavor to your wedge salad.

Step 3: Cut the Lettuce
Start with a fresh head of iceberg lettuce. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water, then shake off any excess moisture. Halve the lettuce vertically, then cut each half into quarters or thirds while keeping the core intact for stability. The crisp, refreshing lettuce forms the beautiful base of your wedge salad, so aim for nice, uniform wedges.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Place the lettuce wedges upright on serving plates. Drizzle the chilled dressing generously over the top, ensuring each wedge is well-coated. Next, sprinkle the crispy bacon bits liberally on each wedge, followed by halved cherry tomatoes and thinly sliced red onion. Finally, crumble blue cheese over the salad for added creaminess and flavor.

Step 5: Season & Serve
Finish the wedge salad by adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for an extra kick. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of textures—the crisp iceberg, creamy dressing, and crunchy toppings. This irresistibly fresh wedge salad is perfect as a side to your favorite main dishes or enjoyed on its own!

Wedge Salad Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to explore delightful ways to make this wedge salad truly your own!

Cheese Swap: Use crumbled feta or tangy goat cheese for a lighter, fresh twist that still packs a flavor punch.
Vegetarian Option: Replace bacon with creamy avocado or crispy roasted chickpeas for a satisfying vegetarian alternative. Think of creamy avocado melded with crunchy lettuce—pure bliss!
Hearty Additions: Boost the protein by adding grilled chicken or shrimp atop your lettuce wedges. Toss in some grilled veggies for a well-rounded feast!
Nuts for Crunch: Sprinkle in some toasted nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to add an unexpected crunch and a flavor layer that complements the creamy dressing beautifully.
Flavor Boost: Drizzle with balsamic reduction or a zesty herb vinaigrette as an alternative dressing to elevate the flavor profile. The tanginess pairs wonderfully with the creamy elements!
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat that will excite your taste buds. Imagine the delightful tingle with each refreshing bite!
Colorful Twist: Get colorful by adding roasted beets or mango slices for sweetness and a vibrant appearance that catches the eye. A feast for the senses!
Fruitiness: Toss in some pomegranate seeds or sliced strawberries for a bit of sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the savory flavors. It’s a delightful surprise that everyone will love!

Remember, this salad is your canvas. If you’re looking for more inspiration, consider enhancing it with ingredients from our Cranberry Carrot Salad or mixing in flavors from a Greek Potato Salad. Happy customizing!

Expert Tips for Wedge Salad

Choose Fresh Lettuce: Always select a heavy head of iceberg lettuce with bright green leaves. This ensures maximum crunch and freshness for your wedge salad.
Prep Ahead: Make the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Crisp Bacon Last: Cook your bacon just before assembling the salad to maintain its crispy texture. Soggy bacon won’t do your wedge salad justice!
Keep It Cool: Serve the salad on chilled plates to enhance the refreshing quality of the crisp lettuce and keep it from wilting.
Customize Your Toppings: Get creative! Swap blue cheese for feta or add nuts, grilled chicken, or roasted veggies to personalize your wedge salad experience.

How to Store and Freeze Wedge Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover wedge salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep toppings like bacon and dressing separate to maintain freshness and crunch.

Dressing: If you have dressing left over, it can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Give it a good stir before using again to revive the flavors.

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled wedge salad, as the lettuce will become wilted and soggy. However, you can freeze leftover bacon separately for future use.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat the salad; simply enjoy it cold. If you accidentally chill your bacon, briefly re-crisp it in a skillet before adding it back to your wedge salad.

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Easy Wedge Salads are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dressing and crispy bacon up to 3 days in advance. Just whisk together the dressing ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a refreshing blend of flavors. Cook the bacon, drain it on paper towels, and keep it in a separate container until you’re ready to assemble your salad. To maintain the lettuce’s crispness, wrap the wedges in paper towels and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When it’s time to serve, simply layer the lettuce on plates, drizzle with dressing, and top with bacon, tomatoes, red onion, and blue cheese. These make ahead options ensure a delicious, stress-free meal that’s just as enjoyable!

What to Serve with Classic Easy Wedge Salad

Savor the burst of flavors and textures by pairing this delightful salad with complementary dishes that elevate your meal experience.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky chicken enhances the savory elements, making for a satisfying and protein-packed pairing. Serve each wedge alongside a perfectly grilled breast, and watch how the flavors dance together.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This indulgent side adds a luscious, buttery texture that contrasts beautifully with the crisp lettuce and creamy dressing. Their warmth and richness balance the refreshing crunch of the salad perfectly!
Steak: A classic match, juicy steak adds robust flavor and satisfies steak lovers. The richness of the meat beautifully complements the tangy blue cheese while creating a heartier meal.
Garlic Bread: The crispy, garlicky bread creates a satisfying crunch, and its buttery goodness brings warmth that complements the salad’s refreshing qualities. Slice it up and serve it warm for the ultimate bite!
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful, caramelized veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots offer a sweet balance, adding an extra layer of flavor and nutrition to your meal. These can easily be prepared alongside your main dish.
Crisp White Wine: A chilled, zesty white wine like Sauvignon Blanc enhances the salad’s flavors while adding a refreshing finish. It’s the perfect accompaniment to bring a little celebration to your table!
Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, light and refreshing sorbet cap off the meal splendidly. The sweet and fruity notes cleanse the palate after the savory salad, leaving a delightful taste behind.

Easy Wedge Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best iceberg lettuce for my wedge salad?
Absolutely! When selecting iceberg lettuce, opt for heads that feel heavy for their size and have bright green, firm leaves. Avoid any with dark spots or wilting, as these indicate age and reduced crispness. Freshness is key for that signature crunch!

How should I store leftover wedge salad?
Very good question! Store any leftover wedge salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to keep toppings such as bacon and dressing separate to maintain maximum freshness and delightful crunch. The loose toppings can sometimes get soggy if mixed in.

Can I freeze the wedge salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled wedge salad, as the lettuce will wilt and become soggy. If you have leftover crispy bacon, you can freeze it separately in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Simply re-crisp in a skillet when you’re ready to use it again!

What can I do if my bacon is soggy?
No worries! To revive soggy bacon, place it in a skillet over medium heat and cook it for a few minutes until it crisps up again. Aim for a crispy texture, as this will elevate your wedge salad experience. If you’re preparing it ahead of time, cooking it just before serving helps maintain that delightful crunch.

Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, swap the bacon for crispy shallots or smoked tempeh to maintain that crunch without meat. Additionally, ensure that your blue cheese or dressing ingredients are free from allergens relevant to your guests. Always check labels for dairy or gluten if anyone has food sensitivities.

How long can I store the homemade dressing?
Your homemade dressing can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Just give it a good stir or shake before using, as ingredients may separate over time. Enjoy the burst of flavor it adds to your salad!