Delicious Loaded Wedge Salad with Homemade Ranch Surprise

Loaded Wedge Salad is a delightful twist on a classic salad that’s perfect for summer BBQs and gatherings. This refreshing dish combines crisp iceberg lettuce with a rich, creamy dressing and a delicious medley of toppings that will tantalize your taste buds. Not only is this salad visually appealing, but it also delivers a burst of flavors in every bite. Let’s dive into this exciting recipe that will surely impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Wedge Salad

This Loaded Wedge Salad is not just any salad; it’s a feast for the senses. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or summer gatherings. The combination of crispy iceberg lettuce, savory bacon, and creamy dressing creates a satisfying texture and taste. Additionally, you can customize it to fit your preferences, whether you prefer a Stuffed Wedge Salad or a Gourmet Wedge Salad. Plus, it fits the American cuisine profile and is vegetarian-friendly if you skip the bacon. You’ll love how versatile and delicious this salad can be!

Ingredients for Loaded Wedge Salad

Gather these items:

• 1 cup mayonnaise (can substitute with Greek yogurt)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or use regular milk plus 1 tbsp vinegar)
• 2 tbsp champagne vinegar (substitute with white wine vinegar)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (or substitute with honey or agave)
• 1 tbsp minced fresh chives (green onions can be used)
• 1 tbsp dried parsley (fresh herbs can be used)
• 1 tbsp dried dill (substitute with fresh dill)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (can use fresh minced garlic)
• 1 tsp onion powder (or use fresh minced onion)
• 1 dash hot sauce (leave out for milder dressing)
• 1 head iceberg lettuce (ensure it’s fresh and crisp)
• 6 slices bacon (turkey bacon for leaner option)
• 2 large hard-boiled eggs (omit for vegetarian version)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (any firm tomato can be used)
• 1/2 medium red onion (substitute with green onions for milder taste)
• 2 tbsp champagne vinegar (as noted above)
• 1 tbsp chives (for garnish)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or fresh, gluten-free option available)
• 2 tbsp salted butter (or replace with olive oil)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (leave out for less citrusy flavor)

How to Make Loaded Wedge Salad Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, champagne vinegar, granulated sugar, minced chives, dried parsley, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of hot sauce until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
2. Step 2: While the dressing is chilling, prepare the red onion by dicing it finely, then soak in water and vinegar for about 30 minutes to mellow flavor.
3. Step 3: Cut a fresh head of iceberg lettuce into quarters or wedges, rinse under cold water, and pat dry.
4. Step 4: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, add breadcrumbs, and cook until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in lemon zest and cool before topping salad.
5. Step 5: On a large platter, arrange lettuce wedges, drizzle with dressing, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, bacon, quartered eggs, cherry tomatoes, and soaked red onion. Garnish with fresh chives.

Pro Tips for the Best Loaded Wedge Salad

Keep these in mind:

• Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Feel free to add toppings like avocado or substitute with Bacon Wedge Salad for a different twist.
• Let the dressing chill for at least 2 hours to enhance the flavors.

Best Ways to Serve Loaded Wedge Salad

Here are a few ideas to elevate your salad experience:

• Serve it as a starter before a hearty main dish.
• Pair it with grilled meats for a delightful BBQ experience.
• Try it with a Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese for a gourmet touch.

How to Store and Reheat Loaded Wedge Salad

To store your Loaded Wedge Salad, keep any leftover dressing separate and refrigerate. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it for up to a week. Just remember to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain its crunchiness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Loaded Wedge Salad

What’s the secret to perfect Loaded Wedge Salad?

The secret lies in using the freshest ingredients and allowing the dressing to chill for a few hours. This enhances the flavors and provides a creamy texture that complements the crisp lettuce.

Can I make Loaded Wedge Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables in advance. Just keep everything separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Loaded Wedge Salad?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your iceberg lettuce is fresh and crisp. Also, avoid overdressing the salad to keep it from becoming soggy.

Variations of Loaded Wedge Salad You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations to consider:

• For a Creamy Wedge Salad, add more creamy dressing or top with crumbled feta.
• Try a Loaded Iceberg Salad with additional toppings like olives or diced peppers.
• Make a Classic Wedge Salad by sticking to traditional blue cheese dressing and toppings.

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection. If you’re interested in trying a different flavor, consider our Persian Chicken Recipe or Jalapeno Buffalo Chicken Casserole. You might also enjoy our Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir Fry for a quick meal.

For more information on the benefits of fresh ingredients, you can read about it here.

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