March 16, 2023

Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad Recipe: Crisp Lettuce, Bacon & Blue Cheese

Few dishes evoke the same sense of nostalgia and satisfaction as the Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad. With its crisp lettuce, smoky bacon, tangy blue cheese, and vibrant toppings, this salad has been a staple on dinner tables and restaurant menus for decades. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the rich history of this iconic dish, explore why it remains a favorite today, and provide tips to make it a standout on your table. Plus, we’ll share a delicious recipe that’s as easy to prepare as it is delightful to eat.

A Slice of History: The Origins of the Iceberg Wedge Salad

The Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad emerged in the mid-20th century, during the post-World War II era when American steakhouses were thriving. Known for their hearty, indulgent menus, these restaurants sought a simple yet elegant starter to complement their rich entrees. Enter the Iceberg Wedge Salad: a quartered head of crisp iceberg lettuce topped with creamy blue cheese dressing, crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, and red onions.

Its popularity soared thanks to its simplicity, affordability, and striking presentation. The salad’s clean lines and vibrant colors made it a visual standout, while its combination of textures and flavors—crunchy, creamy, salty, and tangy—delighted diners. Today, the Iceberg Wedge Salad remains a symbol of classic American cuisine, a dish that bridges generations and continues to inspire modern interpretations.

Why the Iceberg Wedge Salad Endures

The Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad has stood the test of time for several reasons. First, its simplicity makes it accessible to home cooks and professional chefs alike. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s easy to prepare yet feels indulgent.

Second, the salad’s versatility allows for endless customization. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, the Iceberg Wedge Salad adapts to personal tastes and dietary preferences.

Finally, the salad taps into our love for nostalgic flavors. It reminds us of family dinners, celebratory meals, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. In a world of ever-changing food trends, the Iceberg Wedge Salad remains a comforting constant.

Key Ingredients: Fresh, Flavorful, and Nutrient-Rich

At its core, the Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad is a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes this dish so special:

Iceberg Lettuce: Known for its crisp texture and refreshing crunch, iceberg lettuce is the star of the show. While it’s often overlooked for its nutrient content, it provides hydration, dietary fiber, and essential vitamins like vitamin K and folate.
Bacon: Crispy, smoky bacon adds a savory depth to the salad. For a healthier twist, opt for turkey bacon or bake the bacon to reduce excess fat.
Tomatoes: Fresh, diced tomatoes bring a burst of color and a dose of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health.
Red Onions: Thinly sliced red onions add a mild zing and a touch of crunch. They’re also rich in quercetin, a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties.
Blue Cheese: Tangy and creamy, blue cheese ties the salad together. It’s a good source of calcium and protein, though it’s best enjoyed in moderation due to its sodium content.
Dressing: The classic blue cheese dressing is a blend of sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk, red wine vinegar, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. It’s rich and flavorful, but you can lighten it up by using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.

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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.

Nutritional Highlights: A Balanced Indulgence

While the Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad is undeniably indulgent, it also offers several nutritional benefits:

Hydration: Iceberg lettuce is 95% water, making it a hydrating choice, especially during warmer months.
Fiber: The lettuce and tomatoes provide dietary fiber, which supports digestion and promotes satiety.
Protein: Bacon and blue cheese contribute protein, helping to keep you full and satisfied.
Antioxidants: Tomatoes and red onions are rich in antioxidants, which protect your cells from damage.

To keep the salad balanced, practice portion control with the dressing and cheese. A little goes a long way in terms of flavor!

Creative Serving Ideas

While the Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad is perfect as-is, there are countless ways to make it your own:

Add Crunch: Toasted walnuts, almonds, or pecans add a nutty flavor and satisfying crunch.
Boost Protein: Top the salad with grilled shrimp, crab meat, or sliced steak for a heartier meal.
Experiment with Dressings: Try a balsamic vinaigrette, lemon-herb dressing, or creamy avocado dressing for a fresh twist.
Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chives, parsley, or dill over the salad for a burst of freshness.

Chef Tips for Perfect Results

Keep It Crisp: Chill the lettuce and dressing before assembling the salad to maintain its refreshing crunch.
Customize the Dressing: Adjust the tanginess of the dressing by adding more or less vinegar. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
Prep Ahead: The dressing can be made up to three days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Balance Flavors: If blue cheese is too strong for your taste, try feta or goat cheese as a milder alternative.

Food Safety Considerations

Lettuce: Rinse the iceberg lettuce thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or bacteria. Pat it dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner.
Bacon: Cook bacon to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Dressing: Store homemade dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator and discard any leftovers after three days.

Conclusion: A Salad Worth Savoring

The Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of timeless flavors, textures, and memories. Whether you’re serving it as a starter, a side, or a main course, this salad is sure to impress. With its rich history, nutritional benefits, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe that deserves a place in your culinary repertoire.

So, gather your ingredients, whip up that creamy blue cheese dressing, and take a bite of culinary history. The Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad is waiting to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of nostalgia to your table.

Indulge in the Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad and savor a taste of culinary history!