Classic Cobb Salad Recipe – A Fresh Take on an American Classic

Cobb salad is a quintessential American garden salad typically made with chopped salad greens, tomato, crisp bacon, grilled chicken breast, hard-boiled eggs, avocado, Roquefort cheese, and chives. It’s a satisfying dish that perfectly balances protein, veggies, and flavor for a meal that’s both nutritious and comforting. Let’s dive into making your own classic Cobb salad.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 head of iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1 chicken breast, grilled and diced
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, diced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 cup of blue cheese or Roquefort cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons of chives, chopped
• Your choice of Cobb salad dressing, typically a red-wine vinaigrette

Instructions:

1. Begin by prepping your ingredients: chop the lettuces, dice the tomato, grill and chop the chicken, cook and crumble the bacon, dice the hard-boiled eggs, and slice the avocado.
2. On a large platter, arrange the chopped lettuces to create a bed for your salad.
3. Neatly arrange the other ingredients (tomato, chicken, bacon, eggs, and avocado) in rows on top of the lettuce bed.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese or Roquefort and chopped chives over the salad.
5. Just before serving, drizzle your choice of dressing over the salad or serve it on the side for individuals to add as they please.

Tips:

• To keep your avocado from browning, sprinkle lemon juice over the slices after cutting.
• For a healthier version, consider using turkey bacon and a lighter cheese option.
• Personalize your Cobb salad by adding other favorite ingredients like corn, cucumbers, or bell peppers.
• For the best flavor, try making a homemade red-wine vinaigrette. It’s simple to make and enhances the salad with a tangy, fresh taste.

Homemade Red-Wine Vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3/4 cup olive oil

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. While continuing to whisk, slowly add the olive oil until the dressing is emulsified and smooth.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

There you have it – a classic Cobb salad that’s as enjoyable to look at as it is to eat! Perfect for a wholesome lunch, a light dinner, or as a substantial side at your next gathering. Enjoy!