Loaded Wedge Salad: 5 Best Toppings for a Flavor Boost

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Loaded Wedge Salad is a delightful combination of crispy iceberg lettuce and savory toppings that can elevate any meal. Known for its refreshing flavor and beautiful presentation, this salad is perfect for any gathering or a casual family dinner. With layers of flavor and texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed recipe that will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Wedge Salad

This Loaded Wedge Salad Recipe will quickly become a staple in your home for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or as a side for your favorite grilled meats. You can customize it based on your preferences, adding or skipping toppings as desired. Additionally, it’s visually stunning, providing a beautiful presentation for parties and gatherings. The creamy dressing complements the fresh ingredients perfectly, creating a flavor explosion with every bite. The Loaded Wedge Salad ingredients list is simple, ensuring you can whip it up anytime. It’s a healthy option packed with nutrients, especially when you include fresh vegetables and toppings. Finally, it’s versatile, allowing for various Loaded Wedge Salad variations to keep things interesting!

Ingredients for Loaded Wedge Salad

Gather these items:

1 cup Mayonnaise (Can substitute with Greek yogurt)
1/2 cup Buttermilk (Substitute with regular milk + vinegar)
2 tablespoons Champagne Vinegar (White wine vinegar can be used)
1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar (Adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon Minced Fresh Chives (Can substitute with green onions)
1 teaspoon Dried Parsley (Fresh parsley works well as a substitute)
1 teaspoon Dried Dill (Omit or swap with fresh dill if desired)
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can be used)
1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Optional based on preference)
to taste Hot Sauce (Adjust based on desired spice level)
1 head Iceberg Lettuce (Romaine can be used for sturdier texture)
6 slices Bacon (Turkey bacon is a lighter alternative)
2 Hard-Boiled Eggs (Omit for vegan variations or swap with avocado)
1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (Any diced tomatoes can work)
1/2 medium Red Onion (Green onions can substitute for a milder option)
1 cup Breadcrumbs (Panko or Fresh) (Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used)
3 tablespoons Salted Butter (Olive oil works for a dairy-free version)
1 teaspoon Lemon Zest (Can be omitted if lemons aren’t available)

How to Make Loaded Wedge Salad Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, champagne vinegar, granulated sugar, minced chives, dried parsley, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and hot sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Step 2: Soak diced red onions in cold water with a splash of vinegar for 30 minutes to mellow the sharpness. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Remove wilted leaves from the iceberg lettuce and cut into 4 to 6 wedges. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
Step 4: In a skillet, melt the salted butter over medium heat. Add breadcrumbs and cook for 3-5 minutes until golden brown. Stir in lemon zest.
Step 5: On a serving platter, arrange lettuce wedges. Drizzle with dressing, then top with bacon, hard-boiled eggs, cherry tomatoes, and drained red onions. Sprinkle with crispy breadcrumbs and additional chives.

Pro Tips for the Best Loaded Wedge Salad

Keep these in mind:

You can customize toppings based on preference.
This salad can be made vegetarian by omitting bacon and eggs.
Chill the dressing for better flavor.
For a healthier option, use turkey bacon and Greek yogurt.

Best Ways to Serve Loaded Wedge Salad

This Loaded Iceberg Lettuce Salad is ideal for gatherings. Pair it with grilled meats, such as steak or chicken, for a complete meal. It also works wonderfully as a side dish for BBQs or picnics. For a more festive touch, consider serving it in individual portions, making it a great presentation piece for parties.

How to Store and Reheat Loaded Wedge Salad

To store, keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the lettuce may wilt over time, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh. For meal prep, prepare the ingredients separately and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness. This recipe has a Total Time of 150 minutes, including prep and refrigeration.

Frequently Asked Questions About Loaded Wedge Salad

What’s the secret to perfect Loaded Wedge Salad?

The secret lies in the dressing! A good creamy dressing for Loaded Wedge Salad enhances the flavors of the fresh ingredients. Chilling the dressing also allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I make Loaded Wedge Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing and toppings ahead of time, but assemble the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp. This is an excellent option for a Loaded Wedge Salad for parties.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Loaded Wedge Salad?

Avoid using wilted lettuce, as freshness is key to this salad. Additionally, be cautious with the dressing; too much can overpower the other flavors. Use the Best toppings for Loaded Wedge Salad sparingly to maintain balance.

Variations of Loaded Wedge Salad You Can Try

There are numerous Loaded Wedge Salad variations you can explore! For a vegan option, skip the bacon and eggs, and add avocado instead. You can also introduce fruits like apples or pears for a sweet twist. Lastly, consider swapping out the iceberg lettuce for spinach for a nutrient boost. Experimenting with different toppings will keep this classic salad fresh and exciting!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken or try our Creamy Keto Italian Sausage Soup. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss our Gingerbread Cheesecake recipe!

For more information on the health benefits of salads, you can visit Healthline.