Introduction:
Fresh, hearty, and packed with flavor, this Cobb Salad is a classic favorite! Layered with crisp vegetables, protein-rich ingredients, and topped with a tangy homemade dressing, it’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the best of fresh produce and savory toppings, making it a go-to for any salad lover.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Loaded with Flavor: A delightful mix of textures and tastes from bacon, eggs, cheese, and more.
- Healthy and Filling: A balanced meal that’s rich in protein and nutrients.
- Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Homemade Dressing: Adds a fresh, tangy touch that you can’t get from store-bought.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, and arugula)
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 large hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced (grilled or roasted)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
For the Homemade Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cook and crumble the bacon. Boil the eggs, cool them, peel, and chop. Cook and dice the chicken breast. Slice the avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add dried oregano or Italian seasoning if using. Whisk until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl or platter, arrange the mixed greens as a base.
- Layer the crumbled bacon, chopped eggs, diced chicken, sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, crumbled cheese, red onion, and black olives (if using) on top of the greens.
- Serve:
- Drizzle the homemade dressing over the salad or serve it on the side. Toss gently if desired or let everyone add their own dressing.
Tips for Success:
- Ingredients: Ensure all salad ingredients are prepared and cooked before assembling for the best texture and flavor.
- Dressing: For a creamier dressing, add a couple of tablespoons of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.
- Chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken breast for convenience.
Recipe Variations:
- Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and chicken and add extra veggies or chickpeas for protein.
- Southwestern Twist: Replace blue cheese with cheddar and add black beans, corn, and a chipotle dressing.
- Mediterranean Style: Use feta cheese, add cucumber, and swap the dressing for a lemon-tahini sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Cobb Salad with a side of crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal.
- Perfect for a picnic or potluck, easily transportable and enjoyed cold.
Freezing and Storage:
- Storage: Store leftover salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Combine and add dressing just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp.
- Dressing: Store leftover dressing in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake or whisk before using as ingredients may separate.
Special Equipment:
- Salad Spinner: Optional, for washing and drying greens.
- Small Bowl or Jar: For making and storing the dressing.
FAQ:
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use cheddar, goat cheese, or any cheese you prefer. - Can I make the salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. - Can I substitute the chicken?
You can use cooked turkey, tofu, or even a vegetarian protein substitute.
Preparation Time:
- 15 minutes for prepping ingredients.
Cook Time:
- 10 minutes for cooking bacon and chicken (if not pre-cooked).
Total Time:
- 25 minutes (including prep and cook time).
Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 500
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 6g
Cobb Salad (with Homemade Dressing)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, and arugula)
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 large hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced (grilled or roasted)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
For the Homemade Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cook and crumble the bacon. Boil the eggs, cool them, peel, and chop. Cook and dice the chicken breast. Slice the avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add dried oregano or Italian seasoning if using. Whisk until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl or platter, arrange the mixed greens as a base.
- Layer the crumbled bacon, chopped eggs, diced chicken, sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, crumbled cheese, red onion, and black olives (if using) on top of the greens.
- Serve:
- Drizzle the homemade dressing over the salad or serve it on the side. Toss gently if desired or let everyone add their own dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 30g
Closing Notes:
Have you made this Cobb Salad with Homemade Dressing? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your delicious salads and check back for more tasty and easy recipes.
