The Classic Cobb Salad is a timeless dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a filling meal. With its origins dating back to the 1930s, this salad is a delicious combination of crisp greens, juicy chicken, hard-boiled eggs, creamy avocado, smoky bacon, and tangy blue cheese, all topped off with a simple vinaigrette. It’s a balanced meal that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful, featuring a variety of colors, textures, and flavors in every bite. Whether enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or as an impressive dish to serve guests, this salad is a true American classic!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it’s a complete meal in a bowl. The combination of fresh vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats makes it both delicious and nutritious. Each ingredient brings something unique to the salad, from the creamy avocado to the tangy blue cheese and the crispy bacon. It’s versatile and customizable—swap out ingredients based on your preferences or add more of what you love! Plus, the homemade vinaigrette is easy to whip up and elevates the flavors even more. This salad is perfect for anyone looking for a fresh, satisfying meal!
The Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups chopped Romaine lettuce
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup blue cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
For the Vinaigrette:
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
- Assemble the salad: On a large platter or in a wide salad bowl, arrange the chopped Romaine lettuce as the base. Add the diced chicken breast, crumbled bacon, sliced hard-boiled eggs, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled blue cheese, and thinly sliced red onion in neat rows over the greens.
- Add the dressing: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad, or serve it on the side if preferred. Gently toss the salad just before serving, or let everyone scoop their own serving to keep the rows intact.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped chives over the top for an added burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve this salad fresh as a main course for lunch or dinner. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a cup of soup for a more filling meal.
- Storage: If making ahead, keep the ingredients separate and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Helpful Notes
- If you prefer a lighter dressing, use lemon juice or balsamic vinegar instead of red wine vinegar.
- For added crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds over the salad.
- Customize the salad by swapping blue cheese for feta or goat cheese, or add sliced grilled steak or shrimp for a different protein option.
FAQs
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great option for this salad! Just shred or dice it and add it to the salad.
2. Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Absolutely! Simply omit the blue cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
3. How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Toss the diced avocado with a little lemon or lime juice before adding it to the salad to prevent browning.
4. Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite greens like baby spinach, arugula, or a spring mix.
5. How can I make this salad more filling?
Add some cooked quinoa, farro, or a handful of chickpeas to boost the protein and fiber content.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Cobb Salad is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its fresh ingredients, rich flavors, and colorful presentation, it’s sure to impress and delight. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or as a centerpiece for a gathering, this salad is a wonderful way to enjoy a variety of tastes and textures in every bite. Happy cooking and enjoy this timeless American favorite!
