Name: Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing, Bacon, and Fresh Vegetables Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large iceberg lettuce (chilled); 1 cup grape tomatoes (quartered, 125g); 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced, 40g); 2 green onions (sliced); 1/4 cup bacon (cooked and finely chopped, 40g); 2 tablespoons blue cheese (crumbled, 15g); 3 tablespoons blue cheese (crumbled, 25g); 1/4 cup mayonnaise (60g); 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (60g); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons blue cheese (crumbled, 15g) (combined into dressing)

Jump to Recipe·4 from 5 reviews

If you’re craving a salad that’s fresh, crunchy, and packed with flavor, look no further than the Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing, Bacon, and Fresh Vegetables Recipe. This classic American salad takes simple ingredients and transforms them into an irresistible dish featuring crisp iceberg lettuce wedges drenched in creamy, tangy blue cheese dressing, with the smoky crunch of bacon and the juicy burst of fresh tomatoes and onions. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or an impressive side that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows seven small white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface. The largest bowl on the right contains a whole head of light green iceberg lettuce with a smooth texture. Surrounding it are six smaller white bowls: one with white creamy sauce, one with crumbled pale blue cheese, and one with bright red tomato wedges. Other bowls hold finely chopped dark red onions, green sliced scallions, and reddish-brown dried chili flakes. The bowls are spaced evenly, showing a variety of fresh and colorful ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is key to making this salad sing. Each component brings something special to the plate, from texture and flavor to color, making the preparation both straightforward and rewarding.

Iceberg lettuce: The star of the salad, crisp and cool, providing perfect crunch and a sturdy base.
Grape tomatoes: Their sweetness and juicy texture balance the tangy cheese beautifully.
Red onion: Adds a sharp bite and vibrant color to brighten the dish.
Green onions: A mild onion flavor that complements without overpowering.
Bacon: Cooked to crispy perfection, giving a smoky contrast to the cool veggies.
Blue cheese: Crumbled for that unmistakable tang and creaminess essential to this recipe.
Mayonnaise: Provides richness and creaminess for the dressing base.
Greek yogurt: Adds a subtle tartness and makes the dressing silky yet light.
Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance every other flavor.
Garlic powder: Delivers a gentle, savory depth to the dressing.

How to Make Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing, Bacon, and Fresh Vegetables Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Blue Cheese Dressing

Begin by whisking together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and crumbled blue cheese until smooth and well combined. This dressing will coat every crisp bite with creamy, tangy goodness.

Step 2: Slice the Iceberg Lettuce

Peel away any wilted outer leaves of the lettuce and carefully cut the head into four wedges, keeping a bit of the core intact to hold each wedge together. Pat the wedges dry with paper towels, as dryness ensures the dressing sticks perfectly.

Step 3: Assemble the Wedges on Plates

Lay each lettuce wedge flat on a serving plate and generously drizzle with your homemade blue cheese dressing. Don’t be shy – this creamy element is why we adore this salad so much.

Step 4: Top with Fresh Vegetables and Bacon

Scatter quartered grape tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, sliced green onions, a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles, and crispy bacon bits over each wedge. These toppings add layers of texture and pops of flavor that elevate every forkful.

How to Serve Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing, Bacon, and Fresh Vegetables Recipe

A wedge of light green lettuce with many crisp layers sits on a white plate on a white marbled surface, covered in thick white creamy dressing. On top, there are bright red tomato slices, small bits of blue cheese, green slices of spring onion, finely chopped purple onion, and small crispy brown bacon bits scattered around. The dressing looks smooth and rich, partially covering the lettuce and toppings on all sides. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs such as chopped chives or parsley add a lovely brightness and visual appeal. A light dusting of freshly ground black pepper on top can also enhance the salad’s flavors just right.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with hearty options like grilled steak or roasted chicken, offering a fresh counterbalance. For a lighter meal, serve alongside crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up extra dressing.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the wedges on a large wooden board for a rustic look at your next gathering, or make individual plates with smaller wedges as elegant starters. For a fun twist, swap iceberg for romaine hearts or baby gem lettuce for a slightly different texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because this salad is best enjoyed fresh to maintain crispness, store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep the lettuce dry and the dressing chilled.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the high water content in lettuce and fresh vegetables, which would become soggy upon thawing.

Reheating

This salad is served cold, so no reheating is required. Instead, simply prepare fresh wedges when ready to enjoy for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use other types of lettuce for this recipe?

While traditional wedge salad uses iceberg lettuce for its crisp texture, you can substitute with romaine or butter lettuce for a slightly different flavor and mouthfeel. Just make sure the leaves are sturdy enough to hold the toppings.

How do I make the blue cheese dressing less tangy?

If you find blue cheese a little strong, try reducing the amount by half and balancing it with a bit more mayonnaise and Greek yogurt. You can also add a touch of honey to mellow out the sharpness.

Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or replace it with crispy smoked tempeh or roasted nuts for a similar crunch without the meat.

Can I prepare the bacon in advance?

Yes, cooking the bacon ahead of time and storing it in the fridge makes assembly quick and easy. Just warm it slightly or use it cold for that perfect crispiness.

What other dressings work well with wedge salad?

While blue cheese is classic, ranch or creamy Caesar dressings also complement the crunch of the lettuce and freshness of the vegetables beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about the Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing, Bacon, and Fresh Vegetables Recipe that makes it a beloved staple in any meal spread. It’s easy to make, refreshingly crisp, and bursting with flavor every time. Give this recipe a go and watch how it becomes your go-to whenever you need a fresh, indulgent salad that feels both classic and special.

Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing, Bacon, and Fresh Vegetables Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need