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The Ultimate Blue Cheese Wedge Salad: A Classic Steakhouse Experience at Home

Prepare to elevate your salad game with this iconic Blue Cheese Wedge Salad. Crisp, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect light lunch or a sophisticated starter for any meal. This beloved steakhouse classic combines the cool crunch of iceberg lettuce with a rich, tangy homemade blue cheese dressing, savory bacon bits, and vibrant fresh tomatoes, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that’s simply irresistible.

Blue cheese wedge salad on a blue plate, garnished with fresh tomatoes, bacon, and green onions. — A perfectly plated Blue Cheese Wedge Salad, ready to be enjoyed.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Wedge Salad

There’s a reason the blue cheese wedge salad has remained a perennial favorite on menus across the country. Its elegant simplicity belies a profound depth of flavor and satisfying texture. Unlike many other salads that require extensive chopping and dicing, this wedge salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

What truly sets this recipe apart is the emphasis on a truly exceptional homemade blue cheese dressing. Forget the store-bought bottles; once you taste the creamy, piquant goodness of a freshly made dressing, you’ll never go back. It’s surprisingly simple to whip up with common pantry staples and transforms the entire dish from good to gourmet. This cool, crisp, and refreshing salad can stand alone as a light meal or serve as an unforgettable side dish, especially alongside grilled meats.

Beyond its ease and incredible taste, this blue cheese wedge salad is a versatile dish. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences. The combination of fresh, crunchy vegetables, savory bacon, and bold blue cheese is a culinary delight that appeals to almost everyone.

A Brief History of the Wedge Salad

While often associated with classic American steakhouses, the exact origins of the wedge salad are somewhat debated. What is certain is its rise to prominence in the mid-20th century. Iceberg lettuce, known for its incredible crispness and mild flavor, became widely available and popular in American households. Its sturdy structure made it ideal for cutting into large, manageable wedges, which allowed for a dramatic presentation.

The concept of dressing a large wedge of lettuce with a creamy, rich dressing, often blue cheese or a similar ranch-style dressing, topped with bacon and tomatoes, quickly caught on. It offered a refreshing contrast to heavy main courses like steak and became a staple for its satisfying crunch and bold flavors. The wedge salad embodies a certain nostalgic charm, conjuring images of upscale diners and hearty American cuisine. It remains a testament to the idea that sometimes the simplest ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create an enduring classic.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Wedge Salad

Crafting the perfect blue cheese wedge salad relies on a few key, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the balance of flavors and textures that makes this salad so beloved. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

Iceberg Lettuce: This is non-negotiable for a traditional wedge salad. Its firm, crunchy texture and mild flavor provide the ideal canvas for the rich dressing and toppings. Look for a head that feels heavy for its size, with tightly packed, vibrant green outer leaves and no signs of wilting or browning. While some variations use romaine, the classic iceberg delivers that signature “wedge” experience.
Blue Cheese Salad Dressing (Homemade is Best!): The heart and soul of this salad. Opting for homemade dressing provides unparalleled freshness and allows you to control the intensity of the blue cheese flavor. You’ll need:
- Blue Cheese Crumbles: Choose a good quality blue cheese that you enjoy. Varieties like Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or even a robust Danish Blue work wonderfully. Save some extra crumbles for garnishing!
- Buttermilk: Essential for that signature tangy creaminess.
- Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These form the rich, luscious base of the dressing.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory, umami depth that elevates the flavor profile.
- White Wine Vinegar: Contributes a bright acidity to balance the richness.
- Garlic Powder: For a subtle, aromatic kick.
- Kosher Salt & Fresh Ground Black Pepper: Seasoning is key to bringing out all the flavors.
Bacon: Crispy, salty bacon bits are a crucial counterpoint to the creamy dressing. While pre-cooked bacon crumbles can be used in a pinch, frying your own bacon yields the best flavor and texture. Cook it until perfectly crisp, then crumble it into small pieces.
Fresh Tomatoes: Adds a burst of color, sweetness, and juicy acidity. Roma tomatoes are a great choice for their firm flesh and manageable size when cut into wedges. Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved, also work beautifully.
Green Onions (Scallions): Provides a mild, fresh oniony bite and a pop of green color, adding another layer of flavor and visual appeal.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Blue Cheese Wedge Salad

Creating this impressive salad is far simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for a perfect presentation and delightful taste:

1. Prepare Your Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing

The key to an outstanding wedge salad is an outstanding dressing. In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for your homemade blue cheese dressing (blue cheese crumbles, buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, white wine vinegar, garlic powder, kosher salt, and fresh ground black pepper). Whisk until well combined and creamy. For the best flavor, allow the dressing to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This time allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a more complex and delicious dressing.

2. Master the Iceberg Lettuce Cut

Properly preparing the iceberg lettuce is essential for the “wedge” experience. Begin by coring the head of lettuce; simply use a sharp knife to remove the hard, white core at the bottom. Peel off any outer leaves that are limp, bruised, or discolored. Next, give the entire head of lettuce a thorough wash under cold running water. It’s crucial to dry the lettuce very well afterwards to prevent a watery dressing; a salad spinner or clean kitchen towels work best.

Once clean and dry, place the head of iceberg lettuce core-side down on a cutting board. Cut it directly in half through the center. Then, take each half and cut it in half again, creating four large, sturdy wedges. For smaller, more appetizer-sized portions, you can cut each of these four wedges in half once more, yielding eight smaller pieces. The goal is to have wedges that are substantial enough to hold the dressing and toppings without falling apart.

Freshly cut iceberg lettuce wedges on a cutting board, ready for assembly. — Perfectly quartered iceberg lettuce wedges for your salad.

3. Prepare Your Toppings

While the dressing chills, cook your bacon until perfectly crispy. Once cooled, crumble it into small, bite-sized pieces. Dice your green onions, using mostly the green tops for color and milder flavor. Slice your tomatoes into wedges or halve smaller varieties. Have your reserved blue cheese crumbles ready for the final garnish.

4. Assemble and Serve

Arrange one or two crisp iceberg lettuce wedges on each plate. Generously drizzle the chilled homemade blue cheese dressing over the top of each wedge. Don’t be shy – the dressing is a star! Next, sprinkle the crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, and green onions over the dressing. For an extra punch of blue cheese flavor, add a few more blue cheese crumbles on top. Finish with several cranks of freshly ground black pepper, which adds a wonderful aromatic spice. Serve immediately and savor the delightful crunch and rich flavors.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Wedge Salad

Achieving wedge salad perfection is easy with these helpful tips:

Make the Dressing Ahead: This is perhaps the most crucial tip. Preparing the dressing hours in advance or even the day before allows the flavors of the blue cheese, buttermilk, and spices to fully meld, creating a much richer and more complex taste.
Chill All Ingredients: Ensure your lettuce, dressing, and even tomatoes are well-chilled before assembly. A cold salad is a refreshing salad.
Choose Your Blue Cheese Wisely: The type of blue cheese you use will significantly impact the dressing’s flavor. A milder Gorgonzola offers a creamy, slightly sweet note, while a sharper Roquefort or Stilton will provide a more intense, piquant flavor. Experiment to find your favorite!
Customize Your Toppings: While bacon, tomatoes, and green onions are classic, feel free to get creative. Consider adding sliced chives, finely diced red onion for a sharper bite, crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, slices of hard-boiled eggs, crunchy fried onion strings, or even homemade croutons for extra texture.
Vary Your Tomatoes: Roma tomatoes are excellent, but feel free to use colorful heirloom tomatoes for visual appeal, or sweet cherry/grape tomatoes for bursts of flavor.
Make it a Main Dish: To transform this side salad into a hearty main course, simply add a protein. Diced grilled chicken, thinly sliced steak, or seared shrimp are fantastic additions that complement the salad’s robust flavors.
Wash Lettuce Gently: When washing your wedges, run cold water over them and gently separate the leaves to ensure all debris is removed. Drain thoroughly on clean kitchen towels or paper towels to maintain crispness.
Don’t Over-Dress: While generous, ensure you don’t drown the lettuce. You want enough dressing to coat the leaves without making the salad soggy.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

The Blue Cheese Wedge Salad is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Traditionally served as an appetizer or side dish at steakhouses, it cuts through the richness of heavy main courses with its refreshing crunch and tangy dressing. Here are some ideas:

Steak Dinners: This is the quintessential pairing! The robust flavors of a grilled ribeye, tenderloin, or sirloin are perfectly complemented by the cool, crisp, and tangy salad.
Grilled Chicken or Pork: Whether it’s a simple grilled chicken breast, pork chops, or a roasted pork tenderloin, the wedge salad adds a refreshing element.
Seafood: Believe it or not, the blue cheese wedge salad can also pair well with heartier fish dishes or grilled shrimp, offering a bold contrast.
Soup and Salad Combo: Serve it alongside a warm bowl of French onion soup, tomato soup, or a creamy potato soup for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Burger Night: Elevate your backyard burger experience by serving a wedge salad instead of fries.
Brunch: A lighter portion can make an interesting addition to a savory brunch spread.

For drinks, consider a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to match the salad’s acidity, or a light-bodied Pinot Noir if you’re pairing it with red meat. A refreshing craft beer or even sparkling water with lemon would also be excellent choices.

FAQs About Blue Cheese Wedge Salad

What pairs well with a wedge salad?

This classic iceberg wedge salad is exceptionally versatile. It makes a fantastic main dish on its own, especially with added protein like grilled chicken or steak. As a side, it complements most proteins such as steak, chicken, pork, and even heartier fish dishes. Serving it alongside your favorite soup, like a rich French onion or a simple tomato bisque, also makes for a delightful meal.

How long does homemade blue cheese dressing last?

When stored in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator, homemade blue cheese dressing will last for up to 7 days. Always give it a good stir before serving, as some separation can occur.

Can I make blue cheese wedge salad ahead of time?

While the dressing can (and should) be made ahead, it’s best to assemble the salad right before serving. The lettuce wedges should be cut, washed, and thoroughly dried just before plating to maintain maximum crispness. Bacon can be cooked and crumbled in advance, and tomatoes and green onions can be chopped, but keep them separate until assembly.

What if I don’t like blue cheese?

If blue cheese isn’t to your taste, you can still enjoy a delicious wedge salad! Simply substitute the blue cheese dressing with a creamy ranch dressing, a robust Caesar dressing, or even a light vinaigrette. You can still use the classic toppings like bacon and tomatoes, or customize with other preferred ingredients.

Is iceberg lettuce nutritious?

While often criticized for being mostly water, iceberg lettuce does offer some nutritional benefits. It’s a good source of Vitamin K and Vitamin A, and its high water content makes it incredibly hydrating and low in calories. Its main appeal in this salad, however, is its unparalleled crispness and ability to hold up to a creamy dressing.

More Refreshing Salad Recipes

If you loved this Blue Cheese Wedge Salad, you might also enjoy exploring these other delightful salad recipes:

Arugula Fennel Salad: A bright and peppery salad perfect for a light lunch.
Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad: A flavorful and hearty salad with a Tex-Mex twist.
Fresh Tomato Mozzarella Salad: A simple yet elegant caprese-style salad bursting with fresh flavors.
Cold Broccoli Salad: A creamy and crunchy side dish, perfect for potlucks.
Greek Salad with Pepperoncini: A vibrant and tangy salad with classic Mediterranean flavors.
Five Bean Salad: A wholesome and satisfying bean salad, great for meal prep.
Savory Chicken Salad: A versatile and delicious chicken salad, perfect for sandwiches or lettuce wraps.
Savory Carrot Salad: A surprisingly flavorful and refreshing take on carrot salad.

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this classic Blue Cheese Wedge Salad. It’s more than just a salad; it’s an experience that brings steakhouse sophistication right into your home kitchen with minimal effort. Don’t sweat the recipe, just enjoy the incredible flavors!

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Blue Cheese Wedge Salad Recipe

Perfect light, crispy and refreshing lunch or dinner.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars from 1 vote

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Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Servings: 8

Calories: 77kcal

Author: Don’t Sweat The Recipe

Ingredients

For the salad:

1 head Iceberg lettuce, cored
4 strips Bacon, cooked, cooled, and crumbled
3 – 4 medium Tomatoes, cut into wedges (I used Roma)
4 Green onions, diced (green tops only)

For the dressing:

Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing

Instructions

Make dressing according to instructions, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Remove any limp outer leaves of the lettuce head, core, wash and let drain/dry.
Cut the lettuce in half, then cut each half into quartered wedges.
Place each wedge on a plate, drizzle with the blue cheese dressing, top with a few crumbles of bacon, a sprinkling of green onions and reserved blue cheese chunks.
Add a few wedges of tomato on the side.
Grind fresh ground black pepper over the top, if desired.

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