The Ultimate Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad: Crisp, Cool, and Drizzled with Creamy Blue Cheese Perfection

There’s something undeniably nostalgic and satisfying about a perfectly crafted Iceberg lettuce salad. With its refreshing crunch and elegant presentation, the classic wedge salad remains a beloved appetizer or side dish. But what truly elevates this simple creation to legendary status? The rich, tangy, and utterly irresistible blue cheese dressing that generously coats every cool, crisp leaf. Get ready to rediscover a timeless favorite that proves simple ingredients can deliver extraordinary flavor.

 

What You’ll Need

Creating this iconic wedge salad requires just a few fresh ingredients and pantry staples. The key is quality produce and a truly delicious homemade blue cheese dressing that ties everything together. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• 1 large head Iceberg lettuce
• 8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese, plus more for garnish

For the Creamy Blue Cheese Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons milk (or buttermilk for thinner consistency)
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or lemon juice
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of salt (to taste)
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese

Get ready to assemble this beautiful and refreshing classic! Follow these simple steps for a perfect wedge every time, ensuring every bite of your Iceberg lettuce salad is coated in deliciousness.

1. Prepare the Creamy Blue Cheese Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), milk, white wine vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Once thoroughly combined, gently fold in 1/4 cup of the crumbled blue cheese. Taste the blue cheese dressing and adjust seasoning as needed – you might want a bit more salt or a dash more vinegar. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
2. Prepare the Iceberg Lettuce: Remove any damaged or outer leaves from the head of Iceberg lettuce. With a sharp knife, carefully cut the entire head into four equal wedges through the core. Gently rinse each wedge under cold running water and then pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispness.
3. Assemble the Salad: Place one perfectly cut Iceberg lettuce salad wedge onto each individual serving plate.
4. Top and Serve: Drizzle a generous amount of the prepared blue cheese dressing over each wedge, ensuring it coats the leaves well. Evenly sprinkle the crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and the remaining 1/2 cup of crumbled blue cheese over the dressed wedges.
5. Enjoy Immediately: Serve your Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad right away to savor the incredible contrast of crisp lettuce and creamy dressing.

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

• Grilled Chicken or Steak: Turn your wedge salad into a hearty main course by adding slices of grilled chicken breast or perfectly seared steak on top.
• Spicy Kick: Introduce a bit of heat with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha in your dressing.
• Avocado Power: Add creamy diced avocado for extra healthy fats and a smooth texture contrast.
• Different Veggies: Experiment with other toppings like corn kernels, sliced bell peppers, or even roasted asparagus for seasonal variations.
• Herb Garden Freshness: Garnish with fresh chives, parsley, or dill for an added layer of aromatic flavor.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make the blue cheese dressing ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! In fact, making the dressing a few hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: How do I keep the iceberg lettuce crisp?

A: The key is to pat the wedges thoroughly dry after rinsing. Excess water can make the lettuce soggy. For extra crispness, you can also chill the wedges in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes after washing and drying.

Q: What kind of blue cheese is best for the dressing?

A: A good quality, creamy blue cheese like Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or even a strong Danish Blue works wonderfully. Choose one you enjoy eating on its own, as its flavor will be prominent.

Q: Can I use bottled blue cheese dressing?

A: While you can, making your own homemade blue cheese dressing elevates this salad to another level. The freshness and customizable flavor of homemade are unmatched.

Q: How long does the assembled salad last?

A: For optimal crispness and flavor, the Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad is best served immediately after assembly. Once dressed, the lettuce can start to wilt.

Conclusion

The Classic Iceberg Wedge Salad with Creamy Blue Cheese is more than just a salad; it’s an experience. It proves that sometimes the simplest dishes, made with quality ingredients and a touch of care, can be the most memorable. The refreshing crunch of the Iceberg lettuce salad provides the perfect canvas for the rich, tangy complexity of the homemade blue cheese dressing. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a quick weeknight treat, this timeless dish is sure to delight. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of comfort food that looks as good as it tastes. So go ahead, whip up this classic, and let the flavors speak for themselves!

Recipe Note

For the freshest experience, ensure your iceberg lettuce is as cold as possible before slicing and dressing. A chilled salad bowl can also help maintain its crispness, making every bite incredibly refreshing.