The Ultimate Creamy Wedge Salad Toss: A Fresh Twist on a Steakhouse Classic
There is something undeniably nostalgic and satisfying about a classic wedge salad. Traditionally served as a chunky quarter of iceberg lettuce smothered in dressing, our Creamy Wedge Salad Toss takes those same iconic flavors and transforms them into a more manageable, bite-sized experience. This recipe is the perfect marriage of crunchy textures, savory proteins, and a velvety homemade dressing that will make you rethink everything you know about “simple” salads.
The Essential Ingredients
To achieve a five-star restaurant quality salad at home, the secret lies in the quality and purpose of your ingredients. Here is what you’ll need:
- Iceberg Lettuce: The backbone of the dish. Unlike leafier greens, iceberg provides that essential water-rich crunch and sturdy structure that can hold up under heavy dressing.
- Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: These provide a burst of sweetness and acidity to cut through the richness of the dairy. Halving them ensures they distribute evenly in every bite.
- Crispy Bacon Bits: Thick-cut bacon is preferred here. The smoky, salty profile of the bacon is the perfect foil to the cool lettuce.
- Fresh Chives: These add a subtle, oniony brightness and a pop of green color that elevates the visual appeal and freshness.
- Blue Cheese Crumbles: For that signature sharp, pungent kick. If you aren’t a fan of blue cheese, high-quality feta or goat cheese makes a great creamy substitute.
- Homemade Buttermilk Dressing: A blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and garlic. This emulsified sauce binds the ingredients together, ensuring no leaf is left dry.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Prep the Greens: Remove the core from a cold head of iceberg lettuce. Instead of wedging it, roughly chop the lettuce into 1-inch squares. Rinse in ice-cold water and use a salad spinner to ensure it is bone-dry; dressing won’t stick to wet lettuce!
- Crisp the Protein: Fry your bacon until it is perfectly golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces. Resist the urge to use pre-packaged bits; the rendered fat flavor of fresh bacon is irreplaceable.
- Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine your mayo, sour cream, a splash of buttermilk, cracked black pepper, and a hint of garlic powder. Whisk until smooth and pourable.
- The Assembly: In a large wooden bowl, layer the lettuce, halved tomatoes, and half of your bacon and chives.
- The Toss: Pour the dressing over the top and use large wooden spoons to gently fold the ingredients. You want to coat the lettuce without bruising it.
- The Final Garnish: Top with the remaining bacon, chives, and a generous sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles right before serving to maintain texture.
Helpful Pro Tips for Perfection
- Chill Your Plates: For the ultimate steakhouse experience, place your serving bowls in the freezer for 10 minutes before plating. It keeps the lettuce ultra-crisp.
- Acid is Key: If your dressing feels too heavy, add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or extra lemon juice. It brightens the entire flavor profile.
- Toast Your Pepper: Use freshly cracked black pepper. The floral notes of fresh pepper far outweigh the dusty taste of pre-ground versions.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Wedge Salad Toss is versatile enough to be the star or the supporting act.
- The Classic Pairing: Serve alongside a Garlic Butter Ribeye or a grilled New York Strip.
- The Lite Lunch: Add grilled chicken breast or chilled shrimp directly into the toss for a high-protein meal.
- The BBQ Side: This is the perfect cooling side dish for spicy BBQ ribs or pulled pork sandwiches.