Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese

If you’re craving a salad that bursts with crisp freshness and bold flavors, the Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese is an absolute must-try. This iconic dish features a crunchy iceberg lettuce wedge drenched in a creamy blue cheese dressing, topped with smoky bacon, ripe tomatoes, and a sprinkle of chives, making every bite a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. Whether you’re looking for a hearty side or a refreshing starter, this salad brings a nostalgic steakhouse vibe right to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Timeless Flavor Combination: The creamy blue cheese pairs perfectly with crispy iceberg lettuce and smoky bacon for a classic taste you’ll adore.
• Simple Ingredients: It uses fresh, easily accessible produce and pantry staples that make it a breeze to prepare.
• Impressive Presentation: The wedge shape creates an elegant visual that looks stunning on any plate.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether a casual dinner or a special gathering, this salad fits right in with minimal effort.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak with different toppings or dressings to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple but essential ingredients that bring texture, flavor, and a pop of color to the Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese. Each element plays a key role in making this dish so memorable.

• Iceberg lettuce: The crisp, cool wedge base that provides a satisfying crunch in every bite.
• Blue cheese: Adds creamy tanginess with rich, bold flavors iconic to this salad.
• Bacon: Smoky and crispy, it enhances the savory profile and adds texture.
• Cherry tomatoes: Juicy bursts of freshness and vibrant color contrast beautifully with the greens.
• Chives: Fresh, mild onion flavor sprinkled on top for an aromatic finish.
• Mayonnaise and sour cream: These form the creamy base of the homemade blue cheese dressing.
• Lemon juice: Adds a hint of zesty brightness to balance the richness.
• Garlic and Worcestershire sauce: These subtle boosters deepen the savory notes in the dressing.

Variations for Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese

Feel free to customize this recipe to match your tastes or dietary needs. The Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese adapts easily with simple ingredient swaps or additions that keep the spirit of the dish alive.

• Grilled chicken addition: Add protein by topping the wedge with tender grilled chicken breasts for a light main course.
• Use ranch dressing: Substitute blue cheese dressing with ranch for a milder, creamier flavor.
• Vegetarian version: Remove bacon and add toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch and richness.
• Different cheese options: Try feta or goat cheese crumbles if blue cheese isn’t your favorite.
• Veggie upgrades: Include sliced cucumber, red onion, or radishes to add extra freshness and color.

How to Make Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Lettuce Wedge

Start by carefully cutting a head of iceberg lettuce into quarters. Rinse each wedge thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt, then pat dry with paper towels to ensure the dressing sticks well.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Fry the bacon slices over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, drain on paper towels and crumble into bite-sized pieces to sprinkle over the salad later.

Step 3: Make the Blue Cheese Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Fold in crumbled blue cheese, leaving some larger chunks for texture. Chill the dressing while assembling the salad for best flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Place the chilled lettuce wedges on individual plates. Drizzle generously with the blue cheese dressing. Scatter halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, and chopped chives on top for that iconic steakhouse finish.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Serve the Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese fresh to keep the lettuce crisp and the flavors vibrant.

Pro Tips for Making Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese

• Use fresh iceberg lettuce: The foundation of this salad, fresh crisp lettuce makes all the difference.
• Make the dressing ahead: Preparing the blue cheese dressing in advance lets flavors meld beautifully.
• Don’t skimp on bacon: Quality, thick-cut bacon adds essential smoky depth and texture.
• Chill all components: Serving the salad cold keeps it refreshing and perfect alongside warm mains.
• Adjust dressing thickness: Add milk or buttermilk to thin the dressing if preferred lighter.

How to Serve Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese

Garnishes

Enhance visual appeal and flavor by garnishing with extra chopped chives, freshly ground black pepper, or a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese right before serving.

Side Dishes

This salad shines next to grilled steak, roasted chicken, or hearty baked potatoes, making it a perfect classic steakhouse companion.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve mini wedge salads in small bowls or plates for individual servings at dinner parties, or add colorful heirloom tomatoes to elevate the look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover lettuce wedges separate from the dressing to avoid sogginess. Store dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

The fresh ingredients and dressing don’t freeze well, so it’s best to avoid freezing this salad to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold and fresh, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, make a new wedge and toss with leftover dressing if needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different lettuce instead of iceberg?

While iceberg is traditional for its crisp texture, romaine or butter lettuce can be used for a softer bite, though the salad won’t have quite the same crunch.

Is blue cheese dressing hard to make at home?

Not at all! With just a few ingredients and simple whisking, homemade blue cheese dressing is easy and tastes much fresher than store-bought versions.

How long can I store the dressing?

Properly stored in a sealed container in the fridge, blue cheese dressing keeps well for up to 3 days.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Use vegan mayo and sour cream alternatives, skip the bacon, and select a plant-based blue cheese substitute to make a vegan-friendly version.

What wine pairs well with this salad?

A crisp Chardonnay or a fruity Pinot Noir complements the creaminess of the blue cheese and the smoky bacon nicely.

Final Thoughts

Giving the Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese a try is like inviting a little bit of fine dining comfort into your kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to suit any occasion. Next time you want a fresh, hearty salad that feels indulgent without fuss, this wedge salad will become your new go-to favorite.

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