Name: Ultimate Wedge Salad: Fresh, Flavorful, and Fun to Make
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 1 head Iceberg or Romaine Lettuce; 4 slices Bacon (Whole30 compliant if needed); 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (Grape tomatoes can substitute); 1/2 cup Blue Cheese Crumbles (Feta as a dairy-free alternative); 1/4 cup Marinated Onions (Fresh onions can be substituted); 1 cup Gluten-Free Croutons (Homemade or skip for lower-carb); 1/2 cup Olive Oil (Avocado oil can be substituted); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Lime juice is an alternative); 1/4 cup Whole30 Mayonnaise (Avocado or cashew cream for vegan)

The first crunch of a crisp wedge of lettuce brings back memories of sunny backyard gatherings, where vibrant salads never failed to steal the show. Today, I’m excited to share this Mind-Blowing Wedge Salad that transforms a classic into a delightful experience. With layers of crunchy lettuce, smoky bacon, and a tangy creamy dressing, it’s an effortless and healthy option that feels indulgent yet guilt-free. This recipe is perfect for anyone juggling a busy lifestyle yet craving that homemade touch—packed with fresh ingredients and gluten-free, it can easily cater to Whole30 and Paleo diets. But don’t just take my word for it; this salad could eclipse even your favorite summer dishes! What twist will you add to make it your own?

Why is Wedge Salad a Must-Try?

Freshness at Its Finest: Every bite of this Wedge Salad bursts with the essence of garden-fresh ingredients, reminding you of summer barbecues and family gatherings.
Rich in Flavor: The smoky bacon complements the creamy dressing beautifully, balancing textures and tastes perfectly.
Versatile Options: Whether you want a Whole30 Wedge Salad or something vegetarian, this recipe easily adapts to fit your dietary needs.
Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip this salad up in no time, making it the perfect side for a weeknight meal or casual gathering.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Its striking presentation and delightful crunch make this salad a guaranteed hit at any dinner table or potluck. Plus, for a colorful addition, pair it with a refreshing Brussels Sprout Salad for a delightful spread!

Wedge Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

Iceberg or Romaine Lettuce – The crisp base is essential for that signature crunch; iceberg offers a classic taste, while romaine is slightly sweeter.
Bacon – This flavor-packed addition provides smoky richness; ensure it’s Whole30 compliant by checking the curing ingredients.
Cherry Tomatoes – Bright and sweet, they add color and freshness; grape tomatoes can work as a perfect substitute too.
Blue Cheese Crumbles – They contribute a creamy texture and tangy flavor that pairs brilliantly with the dressing; feta is a fantastic dairy-free alternative.
Marinated Onions – Adding zing and texture, marinated onions elevate the dish; fresh onions can be a quicker substitute if needed.
Gluten-Free Croutons – For that added crunch, these croutons enhance the salad; you can use homemade versions made with gluten-free bread or skip for a lower-carb meal.

For the Dressing

Olive Oil – This acts as a rich base for a creamy dressing; if desired, you can substitute with avocado oil for a twist.
Lemon Juice – Adds a bright acidity that elevates flavors; lime juice can be a delicious alternative for a different zing.
Whole30 Mayonnaise – It brings creaminess to the dressing and keeps it gluten-free; swap it out for avocado or cashew cream to make it vegan.

This Wedge Salad effortlessly combines fresh ingredients and flavors, ensuring a delightful meal experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Wedge Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Lettuce
Start by cutting the iceberg or romaine lettuce into wedges, ensuring each piece has a sturdy base for stability. Use a sharp knife and take care to create thick wedges about 2 inches wide. Rinse them gently under cold water to remove any dirt, then pat dry with a clean kitchen towel to ensure each wedge remains crispy.

Step 2: Cook Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to flip the bacon occasionally for even cooking. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, leaving you with that smoky, crunchy goodness to top your Wedge Salad later.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, Whole30 mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Taste the dressing, and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice to suit your preference. This tangy dressing is what will take your Wedge Salad from great to mind-blowing!

Step 4: Assemble Salad
On large plates or a serving platter, place the lettuce wedges upright. Drizzle a generous amount of the creamy dressing over each wedge. Then, add the crispy bacon pieces, vibrant cherry tomatoes, tangy blue cheese crumbles, and marinated onions on top, allowing the colors and textures to shine through and create an inviting presentation.

Step 5: Serve
To finish off your Wedge Salad, sprinkle chopped chives on top for a burst of freshness and add extra gluten-free croutons for delightful crunch if desired. Serve immediately while the ingredients are fresh and crisp, allowing your guests to enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures of this delicious salad right away.

Storage Tips for Wedge Salad

Fridge: Store leftover Wedge Salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.

Dressing: Keep the creamy dressing refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to a week. Shake well before using again—its tangy flavor is worth preserving!

Freezer: We do not recommend freezing Wedge Salad, as the lettuce and other fresh ingredients lose their crispness and quality when thawed.

Reheating: For a quick revive, if you have components like bacon, reheating in the microwave or skillet can bring back some crunch—just be sure not to overheat!

Wedge Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play with this beloved Wedge Salad recipe and add your own personal touch to make it truly your own!

Gluten-Free Croutons: Use gluten-free bread to make croutons, or skip them altogether for a lower-carb version.
You can easily make your own croutons at home. Just cube the gluten-free bread, toss with olive oil and seasonings, and bake until golden brown!
Dairy-Free: Swap blue cheese crumbles for dairy-free feta or avocado to enjoy the creaminess without dairy.
This creates a rich texture and flavor profile, ensuring no one misses out on the deliciousness.
Extra Veggies: Add diced cucumbers or bell peppers for an extra crunch and burst of color.
Toss in some radishes for a peppery kick; they not only enhance the flavor but also add visual appeal.
Grilled Protein: For a filling meal, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein boost.
Marinated grilled chicken would bring a delightful smoky flavor, perfect for al fresco dining!
Tangy Twist: Experiment with dressings like ranch or a balsamic vinaigrette to create different flavor profiles.
This can completely switch up the vibe! A drizzle of balsamic could meld perfectly with the richness of the bacon.
Heat Lovers: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
This will elevate your salad, providing an exciting contrast to the creamy dressing and smoky bacon.
Whole30 Friendly: Make your dressing with avocado oil and cashew cream for a Whole30-compliant version that still delights the palate.
You won’t miss the regular mayonnaise with such flavorful substitutes!
Nutty Crunch: Top off your salad with toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for an unexpected crunch.
They provide not only texture but also a beautiful depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients wonderfully!

Feel free to mix and match these variations! And if you’re looking for more vibrant side dishes, consider pairing your Wedge Salad with a refreshing Brussels Sprout Salad for a colorful, nutritious spread.

Make Ahead Options

These Mind-Blowing Wedge Salad components are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the dressing and marinated onions up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in the refrigerator in airtight containers to keep the flavors fresh. The bacon can be cooked and stored up to 2 days ahead—just make sure it’s completely cooled before placing it in an airtight container to maintain its crunch. When you’re ready to serve, cut the lettuce into wedges and assemble by Drizzling the dressing over the wedges and topping with the bacon, tomatoes, blue cheese, and onions. You’ll enjoy a beautifully vibrant salad that feels just as fresh despite the prep!

Expert Tips for Wedge Salad

Quality Ingredients: Choose the freshest iceberg or romaine lettuce for the best crunch. Freshness is key for a delightful Wedge Salad experience.
Bacon Perfected: Avoid overcooking bacon; it should be crispy but not burnt. Check the ingredients if you’re aiming for Whole30 compliance.
Creamy Dressing: Don’t hesitate to adjust the dressing to your liking! A little extra lemon juice can brighten the flavors of your Wedge Salad.
Onion Options: For a milder flavor, try to soak fresh onions in cold water for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
Make-Ahead Components: Prep your ingredients in advance, including the dressing and chopped vegetables, so that you can quickly assemble the salad whenever you’re ready.

What to Serve with Mind-Blowing Wedge Salad

The perfect pairing can turn a delightful Wedge Salad into a complete meal experience that dances on your palate.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken adds protein and substance, making the meal hearty while complementing the salad’s freshness.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies brings a warm, earthy touch, contrasting beautifully with the crisp salad.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy and buttery, these breadsticks are perfect for mopping up any leftover dressing, enhancing every bite.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing and zesty, this drink cleanses the palate and elevates the entire dining experience with its effervescent charm.
Fruit Salad: A sweet medley of seasonal fruits brightens the overall meal, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of the salad.
Creamy Coleslaw: Adding a creamy, tangy slaw introduces crunch and a different flavor layer, rounding out a picnic or BBQ spread.

Elevate your dining adventure with these pairings, and watch how your Mind-Blowing Wedge Salad takes center stage at every meal!

Wedge Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of lettuce is best for Wedge Salad?
Absolutely! The crispness of iceberg or romaine lettuce is essential for a satisfying Wedge Salad. Iceberg offers a classic crunch, while romaine provides a slightly sweeter flavor. Choose whichever variety you prefer, but ensure it’s fresh for the best texture!

How long can I store leftover Wedge Salad?
Very good question! To maintain freshness, store leftover salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. This way, you can keep the textural integrity of the ingredients, especially the lettuce and bacon.

Can I freeze Wedge Salad components?
Freezing is not recommended for Wedge Salad, as the fresh ingredients, particularly the lettuce, lose their crispness and quality when thawed. However, you can freeze extra bacon for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s cooked and cooled completely, then store it in a freezer-safe bag.

What can I substitute for blue cheese in the Wedge Salad?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option or just prefer something different, feta cheese is a fantastic alternative. Additionally, if you want a vegan-friendly option, avocados or roasted chickpeas can add creaminess and protein without dairy.

How can I make this recipe more suitable for a Whole30 diet?
To keep your Wedge Salad Whole30 compliant, opt for sugar-free bacon and Whole30 mayonnaise in the dressing. Fresh onions can replace marinated onions if you wish to avoid added sugars. Also, ensure all additional toppings are compliant with Whole30 guidelines.

Any tips for marinating onions for the salad?
Certainly! To enhance the flavor of marinated onions, slice them thinly and soak them in a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water for about 30 minutes. You can even add a pinch of salt or a little sugar to your brine if you desire. This quick method brightens their flavor, making them a tasty addition to your Wedge Salad!