Classic Wedge Salad with Homemade Thousand Island Dressing
This timeless wedge salad is a delightful combination of crunchy iceberg lettuce and rich, zesty Thousand Island dressing. Originating from classic American cuisine, it serves as a refreshing starter or side dish that's perfect for any gathering. Elevate your meal with this simple yet exquisite salad, complemented by crunchy chips and pretzels for added texture and flavor. Enjoy a taste of nostalgia with every bite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Iceberg lettuce
1 head (Washed, core removed, cut into wedges)
Mayonnaise
1/2 cup (None)
Ketchup
3 tablespoons (None)
Hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco)
1 dash (None)
Pepper
To taste (Freshly ground)
Chips and pretzels
For serving (optional) (None)
Instructions
1
Start by washing the head of iceberg lettuce thoroughly under cool water. Carefully remove any damaged or wilted outer leaves to ensure the freshest presentation.
2
Remove the core from the lettuce and discard it. Slice the head of lettuce into quarters, creating beautiful, bite-sized wedges, and arrange them on individual serving plates.
3
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise and 3 tablespoons of ketchup. Whisk together until smooth and well blended.
4
Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce, like Tabasco, along with freshly ground pepper to taste. Stir the dressing until the ingredients are fully incorporated and have reached your desired flavor profile.
5
Top each lettuce wedge generously with the Thousand Island dressing, allowing it to cascade beautifully down the sides.
6
For a fun and satisfying touch, serve the salad alongside a platter of crispy chips and pretzels for dipping in the extra dressing. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Classic Wedge Salad?
A classic wedge salad is a timeless dish made from a head of iceberg lettuce cut into wedges and topped with a rich dressing, typically Thousand Island or Blue Cheese.
What dressing is used in this recipe?
This recipe features a homemade Thousand Island dressing made from mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, and freshly ground pepper.
How do I prepare the iceberg lettuce?
Thoroughly wash the head of lettuce, remove any wilted outer leaves, discard the core, and slice the head into four equal wedges.
Is this wedge salad recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat products.
What are the ingredients for the homemade Thousand Island dressing?
The dressing requires 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons of ketchup, a dash of hot sauce, and freshly ground pepper.
Can I add extra spice to the dressing?
Yes, you can adjust the heat by adding more hot sauce, such as Tabasco, to reach your desired flavor profile.
What can I serve alongside this salad?
This recipe suggests serving the salad with a platter of crispy chips and pretzels for added texture and dipping.
How many wedges does one head of lettuce make?
One head of iceberg lettuce typically makes four beautiful, bite-sized wedges.
Is this recipe suitable for a starter?
Absolutely, the wedge salad serves as a refreshing starter or side dish for any gathering.
What type of lettuce is best for a wedge salad?
Iceberg lettuce is the traditional choice due to its crunchy texture and ability to hold heavy dressings.
How do I remove the core from the lettuce?
You can remove the core by either cutting it out with a knife or firmly hitting the core end against a flat surface to loosen it before pulling it out.
Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can whisk the mayonnaise, ketchup, and seasonings together ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
What is the origin of this salad?
The wedge salad is a staple of classic American cuisine.
How should I plate the salad?
Arrange individual wedges on serving plates and pour the dressing generously so it cascades down the sides.
Does this recipe include bacon?
This specific version focuses on the Thousand Island dressing and lettuce, though bacon is a common addition in other variations.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
There are 6 total ingredients: iceberg lettuce, mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, pepper, and optional chips and pretzels.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe and involves simple assembly without cooking.
What kind of pepper should I use?
Freshly ground pepper is recommended for the best flavor in the dressing.
Can I use a different dressing?
While this recipe highlights homemade Thousand Island, wedge salads are also frequently served with blue cheese dressing.
Should the lettuce be dry before serving?
Yes, it is best to pat the lettuce dry after washing to ensure the dressing adheres well to the leaves.
Is the hot sauce mandatory?
No, the hot sauce is used as a dash for flavor, but you can omit it if you prefer a milder dressing.
What flavor profile does the dressing have?
The homemade Thousand Island dressing is described as rich and zesty.
How long does it take to prepare?
Since there is no cooking involved, it only takes a few minutes to wash the lettuce and whisk the dressing.
Can I add other vegetables?
Traditional wedge salads often include tomatoes or onions, which you can add as optional toppings.
What texture does this salad provide?
It offers a delightful combination of crunchy lettuce and smooth, creamy dressing.
Can I use low-fat mayonnaise?
Yes, low-fat mayonnaise can be substituted, though it may slightly change the richness of the dressing.
Is this recipe good for large groups?
Yes, it is perfect for any gathering as it is easy to scale up by using more heads of lettuce.
Why is it called a 'wedge' salad?
It is named for the way the lettuce is sliced into thick, triangular wedges rather than being chopped.
Is ketchup necessary for Thousand Island dressing?
Yes, ketchup provides the signature sweetness and pink color characteristic of Thousand Island dressing.
Can I serve this as a main course?
While usually a side or starter, you can make it a main by adding protein like grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs.