March 16, 2023

The Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad: A Tale of Timeless Flavors and Pleasing Textures

N. Jay Sorensen, MBA RDN

The Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad is a beloved favorite among food enthusiasts and nostalgia seekers. This salad has stood the test of time with its crisp iceberg lettuce, savory bacon, tangy blue cheese dressing, and vibrant toppings. In this blog post, we’ll explore the rich history of the Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad, its enduring popularity, common ingredients, nutritional aspects, and provide creative serving ideas to make it a star on your dining table.

History

The Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad originated in the post-World War II era when steakhouses were flourishing in the United States. It became popular due to its simplicity and affordability. The salad consisted of a wedge of iceberg lettuce topped with crispy bacon, tomatoes, and blue cheese dressing. Its straightforward preparation and attractive presentation made it a favorite among diners.

Popularity

What makes the Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad so popular? It evokes a sense of nostalgia and takes us back to a time when dining out meant enjoying hearty and satisfying meals. The salad’s simplicity, combined with its flavors and textures, pleases our taste buds. The familiar ingredients and customization options make it a versatile choice for a wide range of palates.

Common Ingredients

The foundation of the Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad is iceberg lettuce, known for its satisfying crunch and mild flavor. Crispy bacon adds a smoky and savory element, while diced tomatoes bring freshness. Thinly sliced red onions contribute a mild zing, and crumbled blue cheese offers a tangy and creamy note that ties the salad together. The dressing is a blend of sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk, vinegar, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano, adding richness and tang to the salad.

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Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad

Learn how to make a Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad with a flavorful blue cheese dressing. This recipe combines crisp lettuce, crumbled bacon, diced tomato, and sliced red onion for a delightful salad experience. Enjoy the refreshing crunch and creamy flavors today!

Course Salad

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 0

Servings 4

Author N. Jay Sorensen, MBA RDN

Ingredients

1 head of iceberg lettuce
4 slices of crispy bacon crumbled
1 medium tomato diced
1/4 cup of red onion thinly sliced
1/4 cup of crumbled blue cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the dressing:
1/2 cup of sour cream
1/4 cup of mayonnaise
1/4 cup of buttermilk
1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar
1 clove of garlic minced
1/4 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon of dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and dried oregano. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set the dressing aside in the refrigerator to chill.
Cut the head of iceberg lettuce into quarters and remove the core.
Place one wedge of lettuce on each plate.
Drizzle the blue cheese dressing over the lettuce wedges.
Top each wedge with crumbled bacon, diced tomato, and thinly sliced red onion.
Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese over the top of the salad.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve immediately and enjoy the classic iceberg wedge salad with blue cheese dressing.

Notes

The dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remember to toss the lettuce with the dressing just before serving to maintain its crispness.

Nutrition

While the Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad is indulgent in flavor, it also offers some nutritional benefits. Iceberg lettuce provides hydration, dietary fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while bacon adds protein and crunch. Blue cheese offers calcium and additional protein. Portion control is key to enjoying the dressing’s flavors without excessive calorie intake.

Serving Ideas

The classic preparation of the iceberg wedge salad is delicious, but there are endless opportunities for creative twists. Consider adding toasted walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Grilled shrimp, crab meat, or lobster tail can elevate the salad into a luxurious, protein-packed meal. Experiment with alternative dressings like balsamic vinaigrette, lemon dressing, or creamy avocado dressing for new taste dimensions. Personalize the salad with favorite herbs, such as chives or parsley, to add freshness.

In Conclusion

The Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad is a culinary gem that has captivated taste buds for generations. Its rich history, enduring popularity, and timeless appeal make it a must-try dish for anyone seeking a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and nostalgia. Whether enjoyed in its classic form or customized with unique twists, this salad is sure to bring joy to your table. Indulge in the classic iceberg wedge salad and savor a taste of culinary history.