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Iceberg Wedge Salad

This salad is so fresh and hearty, you’ll almost forget that you’re eating ‘just’ a salad!

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This is absolutely one of my favorite steakhouse menu items. I love everything about it, the cool crisp lettuce, the creamy dressing, chunks of salty bacon, and sweet red cherry tomatoes. It’s a hearty salad, too, one that requires a knife and a fork, so you’re hands are properly warmed up for the steak that is soon to arrive. In the world of salads, an Iceberg Wedge commands attention.

Iceberg lettuce on its own isn’t terribly appealing. But, it is sturdy, surprisingly light, and definitely crisp. All of these characteristics lend themselves to the name “iceberg.” It’s the ideal lettuce to use here because of its sturdy character.

I’ve only outlined the basics because there’s far more to this salad. Somewhat controversial blue cheese is a steakhouse wedge essential. Of course, if it’s not your favorite, you can choose a different crumbly sharp cheese.

These are the flavorful adornments to the salad, and now I invite you to whip up the creamy parmesan dressing. Think along the lines of both Caesar and ranch dressing, or what we lovingly refer to as “cranch.” Buttermilk, mayo, parmesan, fresh herbs and savory seasonings make this one mega-watt salad dressing.

This iceberg wedge is a star on its own. Easily suited for a lunch or dinner, with all of its hearty ingredients, you’ll almost forget you’re eating a salad! I’ve sliced the head of lettuce into thick half moons, then I generously drizzle on the dressing and top the salad with the tomatoes, chunks of crisp (and still warm) bacon, tomatoes, and red onion. Viola! It’s a salad worthy of any specialty steak restaurant.

An Iceberg Wedge Salad is best enjoyed with Oysters Rockefeller, Dry-Aged NY Strip Steak, Crispy Potato Latkes with Creme Fraiche , and Levian Cookies.

Yield(s): Serves 4

25m prep time

15m cook time

5.0
Rated 5.0 out of 5
Rated by 4 reviewers
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you're making mealtime meaningful.
100% of the Share to Care sponsor fees fund meals for families in need. Learn More
Ingredients
  • 1 head iceberg lettuce, root removed, sliced into 1 ½” rings
  • 1 1/2 cups heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 6 oz. slab bacon, large dice
  • 2 oz. blue cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely sliced
  • 1/4 cup chives, 1” slices
For the dressing (serves 6):
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup mayo
  • 2 garlic cloves, pasted
  • 1/2 cup parmigiano reggiano, finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
  • 4 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, diced
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Preparation
  1. In a bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing until combined. Season with salt and pepper, then let refrigerate as long as possible before serving.
  2. Preheat a small saute pan over medium-low heat, and slow roast the slab bacon until crispy on all sides. Remove from heat once crispy. Let cool slightly.
  3. Assemble salad when ready to serve with a base of iceberg lettuce, then drizzle with two tablespoons of dressing, top with cherry tomatoes, onions, blue cheese crumbles and crispy bacon cubes. Dollop with remaining dressing drizzles, then garnish with chopped chives. Enjoy!