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Chopped Wedge Salad
A Chopped Wedge Salad takes everything people love about the traditional wedge and transforms it into a bowl-friendly, fork-ready dish that is easier to serve, toss, and enjoy. Instead of dealing with large, bulky quarters of iceberg lettuce, this version chops every ingredient into smaller pieces. The result is a salad with perfectly distributed flavors—creamy dressing in every bite, crisp lettuce throughout, crunchy bacon, and fresh bursts of tomato. It is refreshing, satisfying, and ideal for anyone who loves the classic wedge but prefers something more practical for meals and gatherings.
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are basic and widely available, yet when combined, they create a flavor profile that tastes far more elevated than the effort required. The chill of the iceberg lettuce, the tang of blue cheese, the saltiness of bacon, and the juiciness of tomatoes work together in perfect balance. Whether you are serving steak, grilled chicken, burgers, or a comforting pasta dish, this salad brings a fresh, cooling contrast that brightens the whole meal. It is also an excellent side to prepare when you need something quick but impressive.
About This Recipe
This recipe takes the iconic wedge salad and turns it into a chopped, shareable version that can be prepared in minutes. Instead of struggling with knife-and-fork wedges, the chopped style ensures every component is evenly mixed. It is especially convenient for family meals, potlucks, and dinner parties, since the salad is easy to transport and serve. The dressing lightly coats the ingredients without overwhelming them, allowing the freshness of the vegetables to shine through.
The Chopped Wedge Salad keeps the essential elements that define the classic version: crisp iceberg lettuce, bacon, tomatoes, and a creamy dressing. However, the chopped format gives it a more modern presentation and a better eating experience. It feels casual enough for everyday dinners yet elegant enough for special occasions. The texture is wonderfully varied, with crunchy vegetables, creamy cheese, and smoky bacon in each bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons this salad becomes a repeat favorite. First, it is extremely fast to prepare, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute meals. Second, it pairs well with many cuisines—American, Mediterranean, grilled dishes, roasted meats, or even simple sandwiches. Third, it is customizable. If you prefer ranch over blue cheese, you can use it. If you want more vegetables, you can add cucumbers or avocado. The recipe is flexible without losing its character. The fresh crunch of the lettuce combined with the richness of the dressing creates a satisfying balance that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
• 1 large head of iceberg lettuce, chopped into small pieces
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
• 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/3 cup blue cheese crumbles (or preferred cheese)
• 1/2 cup blue cheese dressing or ranch dressing
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
• Place the chopped iceberg lettuce in a large serving bowl.
• Add the cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, and chopped red onion on top.
• Sprinkle the blue cheese crumbles evenly across the salad.
• Drizzle the dressing over the ingredients.
• Toss gently, ensuring all pieces are lightly coated.
• Add freshly ground black pepper and serve immediately.
FAQ
Can I use romaine instead of iceberg?
Yes, romaine works very well and adds extra crunch. Iceberg is traditional, but romaine provides a slightly deeper flavor and more nutrients.
Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
You can chop the lettuce and vegetables several hours ahead, but wait to add dressing and bacon until serving. This prevents the vegetables from softening and keeps the bacon crispy.
Is blue cheese dressing required?
No. Although classic wedge salads use blue cheese dressing, ranch is a popular substitute for those who prefer a milder, creamier flavor.
You Should Know
The key to an excellent chopped wedge salad is completely drying the lettuce after washing it. Any remaining moisture can dilute the dressing and soften the leaves. Crisp lettuce enhances the overall texture and improves the salad’s freshness. Another tip is to crumble the bacon right before serving to maintain its crunch. The components are simple, but how they are handled makes a significant difference in the final result.
If you want to elevate the salad even more, consider chilling your serving bowl in the refrigerator. A cold bowl helps keep the lettuce crisp and refreshing. Many restaurants use this technique to maintain quality when serving cold salads.
Storage Tips
If you expect leftovers, keep the dressing separate. Undressed salad can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours without losing much texture. Once dressed, the lettuce will begin to soften, so dressed portions are best enjoyed immediately. Store the bacon separately as well to preserve its crunch. If the salad has already been mixed with dressing, it should be eaten the same day for best results.
This Chopped Wedge Salad is a reliable addition to any meal plan. It is easy, refreshing, customizable, and full of classic flavor. Whether you are hosting a dinner or preparing a quick weekday meal, this salad brings a delicious burst of freshness to the table.