Name: Easy Wedge Salad That You Can Customize in Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 head Iceberg Lettuce (Choose heavy, vibrant heads); 4 slices Bacon (Cook until crispy); 1 cup Diced Tomatoes (Add just before serving); 1/2 cup Chopped Onions (Substitute with green onions if desired); to taste Freshly Cracked Black Pepper; 1 cup Blue Cheese Dressing (Make ahead and chill for at least 30 minutes)

Isn’t it freeing to indulge in crisp, cool flavors with just a moment’s effort? My Easy Wedge Salad is about to become your go-to side dish for any occasion. Featuring quartered iceberg lettuce topped with rich blue cheese dressing, crispy bacon, and vibrant fresh veggies, this salad is not just a classic—it’s customizable to fit your taste buds! Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or adding a touch of elegance to your steak feasts, it comes together in a snap, taking only 10 minutes from prep to plate. The best part? You can switch up the toppings to keep things exciting! What toppings will you choose to make this wedge salad your own?

Why is Wedge Salad So Special?

Quick Assembly: This Easy Wedge Salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Customizable Delight: You can easily tailor your toppings—think bacon, tomatoes, or even avocado—for a fresh twist.
Classic Taste: The combination of crunchy iceberg lettuce and rich blue cheese dressing truly captures the essence of steakhouse dining right in your home.
Crowd-Pleaser: It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it an ideal side dish for gatherings or dinner parties. Check out more side dishes like my Corn Salad Zesty or Peach Feta Salad for more inspiration!
Fresh Ingredients: Using vibrant veggies elevates not just the taste but also the nutritional value, making every bite feel guilt-free.

Easy Wedge Salad Ingredients

• Dive into the fresh flavors of this classic!

For the Salad

Iceberg Lettuce – Acts as the crisp foundation; choose heavy, vibrant heads for the best texture.
Bacon – Adds irresistible crunch; cook until crispy just before serving for maximum flavor.
Diced Tomatoes – Introduces a burst of freshness; add them just before serving for optimal taste.
Chopped Onions – Provides sharpness; substitute with green onions for a milder flavor.
Freshly Cracked Black Pepper – Enhances all the salad’s flavors without being overpowering.

For the Dressing

Blue Cheese Dressing – Delivers creamy goodness and rich flavor; make ahead and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Embrace your creativity by customizing this easy wedge salad to fit your personal taste!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Wedge Salad

Step 1: Prep Dressing
Begin by preparing the blue cheese dressing for your Easy Wedge Salad. In a mixing bowl, combine your blue cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and a splash of lemon juice. Stir until smooth and well-mixed, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.

Step 2: Cook Bacon
While the dressing chills, cook the bacon for that perfect crispy topping. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add diced bacon pieces. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease, keeping it crunchy for your wedge salad.

Step 3: Prepare Lettuce
Take a head of iceberg lettuce and trim away any outer leaves. Using a sharp knife, cut the head into four uniform wedges, ensuring the core remains intact for stability. Place each wedge onto a large serving plate or individual plates. This will create the foundation of your refreshing Easy Wedge Salad and set the stage for all those delicious toppings.

Step 4: Assemble Salad
Now it’s time to assemble your Easy Wedge Salad! Drizzle chilled blue cheese dressing generously over each wedge of lettuce. Then, sprinkle a handful of crispy bacon pieces on top, followed by diced tomatoes and chopped onions. This adds a vibrant color and a delightful crunch, making your salad as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Step 5: Season
To finish off your Easy Wedge Salad, season each wedge with freshly cracked black pepper to taste. This adds an aromatic touch that brings all the flavors together. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispness of the lettuce and the lusciousness of the dressing, making it a perfect side dish or appetizer at your next meal.

Expert Tips for Easy Wedge Salad

Chill Your Plates: Use chilled plates to keep the lettuce crisp and fresh until serving. Warm plates can wilt the salad.
Dress Smartly: Avoid overdressing by serving extra blue cheese dressing on the side. This helps prevent sogginess in your Easy Wedge Salad.
Prep Ahead: For a quicker assembly, prepare the chopped toppings and dressing a day in advance. Just keep everything separate until you’re ready to serve.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use the freshest iceberg lettuce and vibrant veggies. This makes a significant difference in flavor and presentation.
Customize Boldly: Feel free to swap out toppings based on your preferences. Substituting cheese or adding nuts can transform your Easy Wedge Salad into a personal masterpiece!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Wedge Salad components can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance, making meal planning a breeze! Start by preparing the blue cheese dressing and refrigerate it for optimal flavor. You can slice the iceberg lettuce into wedges and keep it stored in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture, helping it stay crisp. Additionally, cook the bacon ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator; reheat it briefly in a pan to regain its crunch before serving. Just remember to add the tomatoes and onions right before you serve your Easy Wedge Salad, ensuring that everything tastes fresh and delightful! With these make-ahead tips, you’ll save time while still impressing your family with a restaurant-quality side dish.

Easy Wedge Salad Customizations

Invite your taste buds to explore endless possibilities with this Easy Wedge Salad, celebrating fresh flavors and delightful textures!

Feta Swap: Replace blue cheese with feta for a lighter, tangy taste that brightens each bite.
Add Avocado: Creamy avocado lends richness and a silky texture, making your salad even more satisfying.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate toasted walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and a nutty flavor twist.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a fragrant lift and vibrant color.
Heat it Up: A sprinkle of chopped jalapeños can add a delightful kick to your wedge salad.
Greek Style: Change the dressing to a Greek yogurt mix for a creamy yet tangy alternative—perfect alongside a Greek Potato Salad!
Summer Bliss: Top with sweet corn or cherry tomatoes for a burst of summer flavor—ideal for barbecues and picnics. Consider adding elements from my Cherry Tomato Salad for even more inspiration!
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp on top for a hearty meal that’s still fresh and crisp.

Feel free to blend in your favorite toppings—every customization brings a new story to this classic dish!

What to Serve with Easy Wedge Salad?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this light and refreshing salad with delicious accompaniments that complete the meal.

Grilled Steak: The bold flavors of steak enhance the salad’s richness, making it a perfect complement for a satisfying dinner.
Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-seasoned chicken pairs beautifully, lending a savory depth to the crispness of the Easy Wedge Salad.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky crunch of toasted bread provides a delightful contrast to the fresh salad and blue cheese.
Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes drizzled with butter offer a cozy, comforting pairing that meshes well with the salad’s zesty elements.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc accentuates the salad’s freshness, refreshing your palate while dining.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant assortment of fresh fruits, with their natural sweetness, balances the savory flavors of the wedge salad beautifully.
Coleslaw: This tangy and crunchy side dish adds extra texture and is a tasty match for the creamy salad.
Chocolate Mousse: Treat yourself to a light, airy dessert after your meal; its richness perfectly contrasts the salad’s crisp freshness.

By mixing and matching these delightful pairings, you can create a memorable dining experience that celebrates the spirit of home-cooked meals.

How to Store and Freeze Easy Wedge Salad

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, keep the dressing separate from the lettuce and toppings.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this Easy Wedge Salad, as the texture of lettuce and fresh toppings may become mushy upon thawing.
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the dressing and chopped toppings in advance, storing them in the fridge for up to 2 days for quick assembly later.
Reheating: Since this salad is best served cold, there’s no need to reheat; simply assemble fresh before serving.

Easy Wedge Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best iceberg lettuce?
Look for heads of iceberg lettuce that feel heavy for their size and have a vibrant green exterior. Avoid any heads with yellowing or wilting leaves, as this indicates age. The outer leaves should be crisp and firm, ensuring a satisfying crunch in your Easy Wedge Salad.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy. I often place the lettuce in a container lined with paper towels to absorb any moisture and help maintain its crispness.

Can I prepare the components in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the blue cheese dressing and chop your toppings up to 2 days in advance. Store them in the refrigerator in individual airtight containers. Just remember to keep the lettuce whole until you’re ready to assemble the salad for maximum freshness!

Can I freeze my Easy Wedge Salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as iceberg lettuce and other fresh toppings will lose their crisp texture when thawed. Instead, consider preparing your dressing and toppings ahead of time and storing them in the refrigerator for quick assembly later.

What can I do if my lettuce is wilting?
If your lettuce is wilting, try soaking it in cold water for about 10–15 minutes to revive it. The cold water can help restore some crispness. However, if the lettuce shows dark spots or excessive wilting, it’s best to discard it and choose a fresher head.

Is this salad suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
You can easily customize this Easy Wedge Salad to cater to most dietary needs. For those with lactose intolerance, substitute the blue cheese dressing with a dairy-free version. Additionally, if you’re looking to create a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon or swap it with a plant-based alternative!