Savory Iceberg Wedge Salad with Crispy Bacon and Blue Cheese
Experience a delightful twist on a classic favorite with this Savory Iceberg Wedge Salad. Inspired by Zach Braff’s go-to choice at The Mermaid Oyster Bar in New York City, this salad combines crisp iceberg lettuce with a rich, homemade dressing that brings a balance of flavors. The addition of crispy smoked bacon and creamy blue cheese elevates this dish to another level, making it perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing starter. Enhance it further by topping with grilled shrimp for a satisfying meal. Be sure to let the dressing rest for at least an hour to develop its full flavor, ensuring every bite is a delicious explosion.
N/A
Servings
215
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
mayonnaise
1/2 cup (can substitute with light mayonnaise if desired)
ketchup
2 tablespoons
horseradish
1 tablespoon
Worcestershire sauce
1 dash
kosher salt
to taste (can use seasoning salt or Old Bay seasoning)
smoked bacon
6 thick strips (cut into 1 inch pieces)
iceberg lettuce
1 head (cut into quarters)
cherry tomatoes
5 (halved)
scallions
4 (thinly sliced)
blue cheese
1/2 cup (crumbled)
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
fresh parsley
1 tablespoon (chopped)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and salt until smooth. Cover and let the dressing rest in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to enhance the flavors.
2
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon pieces until they are crispy, approximately 6-8 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess fat.
3
While the bacon is cooking, prepare the iceberg lettuce by cutting it into quarters. In a large serving bowl, gently toss the lettuce wedges with a portion of the prepared dressing until lightly coated.
4
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced scallions on top of the dressed lettuce.
5
Sprinkle the crispy bacon bits and crumbled blue cheese evenly over the salad. Season with freshly ground pepper and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
6
Serve immediately, with any remaining dressing on the side for drizzling.
Nutrition Information
15.75g
Fat
5.75g
Carbs
9.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is the Savory Iceberg Wedge Salad with Crispy Bacon and Blue Cheese.
Who inspired this specific salad recipe?
This salad was inspired by Zach Braff’s favorite choice at The Mermaid Oyster Bar.
Where is The Mermaid Oyster Bar located?
The Mermaid Oyster Bar is located in New York City.
What type of lettuce is used as the base?
A single head of iceberg lettuce is used for this recipe.
How should the iceberg lettuce be prepared?
The lettuce should be cut into quarters to create wedges.
What are the ingredients for the homemade dressing?
The dressing contains mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and salt.
How long should the dressing rest before serving?
The dressing should rest in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours.
Why is it important to let the dressing rest?
Resting allows the flavors to develop and ensures a delicious explosion in every bite.
What type of bacon is recommended for this salad?
The recipe calls for 6 thick strips of smoked bacon.
How should the bacon be cut before cooking?
The bacon should be cut into 1-inch pieces.
How long does it take to cook the bacon?
The bacon takes approximately 6 to 8 minutes to cook until crispy.
What is the best way to drain the bacon fat?
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.
What kind of cheese is included in the toppings?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of crumbled blue cheese.
Which tomatoes are best for this wedge salad?
The recipe specifies using 5 cherry tomatoes that have been halved.
Can I substitute the regular mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute regular mayonnaise with light mayonnaise if desired.
What are alternative options for kosher salt?
You can use seasoning salt or Old Bay seasoning instead of kosher salt.
How many calories are in a serving of this salad?
There are 215 calories per serving.
What is the total fat content?
The salad contains 15.75g of fat.
How much protein does this salad provide?
The salad provides 9.5g of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 5.75g of carbohydrates.
What is a recommended protein addition to make this a full meal?
Topping the salad with grilled shrimp is recommended for a more satisfying meal.
How many total ingredients are required?
There are 12 ingredients in total.
What type of pepper should be used for seasoning?
The recipe suggests using freshly ground black pepper.
What garnish is used for the final touch?
The salad is garnished with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley.
How should the scallions be prepared?
The 4 scallions should be thinly sliced.
Is this recipe suitable for summer gatherings?
Yes, it is described as a refreshing starter perfect for summer gatherings.
Should the salad be served immediately?
Yes, it should be served immediately after assembly.
How should the dressing be applied to the lettuce?
Gently toss the lettuce wedges with a portion of the dressing until lightly coated before adding other toppings.
What should I do with the remaining dressing?
Any remaining dressing should be served on the side for drizzling.
What heat setting is used to cook the bacon?
The bacon should be cooked in a skillet over medium heat.