Wedge salads are a classic, and for good reason. The combination of crispy lettuce, creamy dressing, and savory toppings is a winning formula that never goes out of style. But why settle for just any old wedge salad when you can elevate it with bold flavors and creative twists? From spicy sriracha to smoky salmon, we’ve got 18 delicious wedge salad recipes to inspire your next meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and exotic, we’ve got a wedge salad recipe that’s sure to hit the spot.
Classic Blue Cheese Wedge Salad
This timeless salad is a staple of American cuisine, featuring crisp iceberg lettuce, tangy blue cheese crumbles, and sweet juicy tomatoes. With its bold flavors and refreshing crunch, it’s a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of iceberg lettuce, cut into wedges
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 2 large tomatoes, cut into wedges
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the lettuce wedges on a serving plate.
2. Top each wedge with a spoonful of blue cheese crumbles.
3. Add a tomato wedge on top of the blue cheese.
4. Sprinkle chopped chives over the salad.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None required!
Bacon and Tomato Wedge Salad
A classic combination of crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and creamy dressing, this salad is a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the tomatoes into wedges and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Cook the bacon slices in a pan until crispy, then chop into bits.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and chopped parsley.
5. Assemble the salad by placing a tomato wedge on each plate, topping with a spoonful of the mayo mixture, and finishing with a sprinkle of crumbled bacon.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Ranch Wedge Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic wedge salad, this recipe combines the richness of avocado with the tanginess of ranch dressing for a delicious and healthy snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 iceberg lettuce leaves
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the iceberg lettuce into wedges.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the diced avocado and ranch dressing until smooth.
3. Place a spoonful of the avocado-ranch mixture on top of each lettuce wedge.
4. Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese over the top (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Wedge Salad
A twist on the classic wedge salad, this recipe adds a spicy kick with sriracha mayonnaise and crispy bacon. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their salads!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 iceberg lettuce wedges
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup sriracha mayonnaise (see below for recipe)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
Sriracha Mayonnaise:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the sriracha mayonnaise ingredients.
2. Cut the lettuce into wedges and place on individual plates.
3. Top each wedge with blue cheese (if using), crumbled bacon, and a dollop of sriracha mayonnaise.
4. Garnish with chopped chives and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Grilled Chicken Wedge Salad
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing Grilled Chicken Wedge Salad recipe! Juicy grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy dressing come together for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4-6 iceberg lettuce wedges
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine lettuce wedges, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and blue cheese.
3. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add on top of the salad.
4. Drizzle with ranch dressing and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Wedge Salad
Elevate your salad game with this rich and savory Garlic Parmesan Wedge Salad recipe, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Crunchy romaine lettuce, tangy blue cheese crumbles, and creamy parmesan sauce come together in harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 iceberg or romaine lettuce wedges
– 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil.
3. Arrange lettuce wedges on a baking sheet and brush with garlic oil.
4. Sprinkle blue cheese crumbles over the lettuce.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Drizzle white wine vinegar over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Wedge Salad
Elevate your lunch game with this mouth-watering Buffalo Chicken Wedge Salad! Crisp romaine lettuce, juicy chicken, and spicy buffalo sauce come together for a flavorful combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Toss chicken with 2 tablespoons buffalo wing sauce and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, diced chicken, blue cheese (if using), and red onion slices.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Add remaining buffalo wing sauce and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Buttermilk Wedge Salad
This refreshing salad combines the classic flavors of buttermilk dressing with fresh herbs and crisp lettuce, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 iceberg lettuce wedges
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crispy bacon bits or crumbled blue cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together buttermilk, chives, parsley, and mayonnaise until smooth.
2. Place the lettuce wedges on a serving plate or individual plates.
3. Drizzle the herbed buttermilk dressing over the lettuce, allowing it to pool slightly at the bottom of each wedge.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with crispy bacon bits or crumbled blue cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes ( preparation only)
Smoked Salmon Wedge Salad
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing Smoked Salmon Wedge Salad recipe, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as an appetizer. The combination of crispy iceberg lettuce, creamy avocado, tangy crème fraîche, and smoky salmon is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 large iceberg lettuce wedges
– 1/2 pound smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup crème fraîche
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the lettuce into wedges and place on a serving plate.
2. Top each wedge with a spoonful of flaked salmon, diced avocado, and a dollop of crème fraîche.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( preparation only)
Balsamic Glazed Wedge Salad
A twist on the classic wedge salad, this recipe adds a rich and tangy balsamic glaze to elevate the flavors. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 iceberg lettuce wedges
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce glaze by half, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Arrange lettuce wedges on a baking sheet. Drizzle with the balsamic glaze and sprinkle with blue cheese, red onion, and parsley.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lettuce is slightly wilted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jalapeño Lime Wedge Salad
This refreshing salad combines the spicy kick of jalapeños with the brightness of lime juice, perfect for a light and zesty meal or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lime wedges
– 1/2 cup diced fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 2 large jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cilantro, queso fresco, and chopped jalapeños.
2. Squeeze the lime wedges over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Roasted Corn and Black Bean Wedge Salad
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the sweetness of roasted corn with the savory taste of black beans. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed and roasted (see below)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss corn kernels with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until lightly caramelized.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, warmed black beans, roasted corn, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
3. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes for roasting corn
Greek Feta Wedge Salad
A classic Greek salad gets a twist with crispy wedge-cut iceberg lettuce, creamy feta cheese, and juicy olives. This refreshing side dish is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of iceberg lettuce, cut into wedges
– 1 block of crumbled feta cheese (about 6 oz)
– 1/4 cup of pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp of olive oil
– 1 tsp of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the lettuce wedges on a large platter or individual plates.
2. Top each wedge with crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, and a drizzle of olive oil.
3. Squeeze a sliver of lemon juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Maple Bacon Wedge Salad
A classic wedge salad gets a sweet and savory twist with the addition of crispy maple bacon. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 iceberg lettuce wedges
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 1/2 cup crispy maple bacon, broken into pieces
– 1/2 cup creamy ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay the bacon strips on it.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy, then remove from oven and let cool.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and maple syrup.
5. Arrange lettuce wedges on a serving plate or individual plates.
6. Top each wedge with crumbled blue cheese, chopped chives, and crispy maple bacon pieces.
7. Drizzle the maple-ranch dressing over the salad.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (for baking the bacon)
Pesto Drizzle Wedge Salad
Elevate your classic wedge salad with a flavorful and vibrant pesto drizzle. This simple yet impressive salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 iceberg lettuce wedges
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto (or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the lettuce into wedges and place on a serving plate or individual plates.
2. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of pesto over each wedge, leaving some white space between the lettuce and the pesto.
3. Top each wedge with crumbled blue cheese and chopped chives.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Sun-Dried Tomato Wedge Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic wedge salad, this recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes with crisp lettuce and creamy blue cheese. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the lettuce leaves into wedges.
2. Top each wedge with a spoonful of blue cheese crumbles.
3. Sprinkle chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the blue cheese.
4. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just assemble and serve!)
Caramelized Onion Wedge Salad
A sweet and savory twist on a classic wedge salad, this recipe adds the rich flavor of caramelized onions to create a delightful side dish or light lunch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate your salad game in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of iceberg lettuce
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Cut the iceberg lettuce into wedges and place on a serving plate or platter.
4. Top each wedge with a spoonful of the caramelized onions, followed by a sprinkle of blue cheese (if using).
5. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Chili Lime Shrimp Wedge Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of shrimp with the spiciness of chili lime dressing, all wrapped up in a crunchy wedge of iceberg lettuce. Perfect for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup chili lime dressing (homemade or store-bought)
– 4-6 iceberg lettuce leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Marinate shrimp in chili lime dressing for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Cut iceberg lettuce into wedges.
5. Top each wedge with a grilled shrimp, crumbled feta cheese (if using), and a drizzle of remaining chili lime dressing.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your salad game with these 18 crispy wedge recipes featuring bold flavors! From classic blue cheese and bacon to spicy Sriracha and grilled chicken, there’s something for everyone. Try adding some creamy avocado or herby buttermilk for an extra boost of flavor. Or go bold with buffalo chicken, smoked salmon, or caramelized onions. Each recipe is packed with fresh ingredients and mouthwatering combinations. Whether you’re a salad newbie or a seasoned pro, these wedge recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire your next meal.
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