If you’ve ever treasured the experience of biting into a crisp, refreshing salad that bursts with flavor and texture, then you absolutely must try this Wedge Salad with Creamy Buttermilk Dressing Recipe. It’s that perfect blend of cool, crunchy iceberg lettuce paired with a luscious, tangy dressing that feels both indulgent and fresh. Topped with smoky bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, sharp red onion, and crumbled blue cheese, this salad is a timeless classic that’s incredibly simple to prepare yet always impresses. Whether for a casual dinner or an elegant gathering, this recipe brings a delightful combination of textures and bold flavors to your table every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beautiful thing about this Wedge Salad with Creamy Buttermilk Dressing Recipe is how straightforward and essential the ingredients are, each adding its own unique touch. From crisp lettuce providing the perfect crunchy canvas, to the rich dressing and savory toppings — every component plays a crucial role in building a balanced and flavorful salad experience.
- Iceberg lettuce (1 large head, cut into wedges): Crisp and refreshing, iceberg provides that iconic crunchy base.
- Bacon (4 slices, cooked and crumbled): Adds a smoky, salty crunch that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Cherry tomatoes (1/2 cup, halved): Sweet bursts of juiciness that lighten and brighten the dish.
- Red onion (1/4 cup finely diced): Sharp and tangy for a little bite and color contrast.
- Blue cheese (1/4 cup crumbled): Creamy and pungent, bringing depth and richness.
- Buttermilk (1 cup): The star ingredient in the dressing, providing a tangy creaminess.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Contributes smooth texture and body to the dressing.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds subtle tartness and extra creaminess to the dressing.
- Lemon juice or white vinegar (1 tablespoon): Gives the dressing a bright acidic kick.
- Garlic (1 small clove, finely minced): Infuses subtle savory depth into the dressing.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds gentle warmth and spice.
How to Make Wedge Salad with Creamy Buttermilk Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by whisking together the buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice or vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. The result should be a smooth, creamy dressing that carries a perfect balance of tang and richness. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes so the flavors can meld together beautifully. This step sets the foundation for the salad’s irresistible flavor.
Step 2: Cut and Arrange the Lettuce
Take the large head of iceberg lettuce and carefully cut it into four wedges. Each wedge will serve as the hearty base for the toppings and dressing. Arrange these wedges neatly on your serving plates to create an eye-catching presentation that invites everyone to dig right in.
Step 3: Dress the Wedges
Generously spoon the creamy buttermilk dressing over the lettuce wedges. Make sure every crisp leaf gets coated, adding both flavor and moisture that complement the crunchiness perfectly. This creamy layer is what truly makes the Wedge Salad with Creamy Buttermilk Dressing Recipe so special and satisfying.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
Now for the fun part – top each dressed wedge with crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, and crumbled blue cheese. The smoky bacon adds texture, the tomatoes provide sweetness, the onion sharpness, and the cheese a bold creaminess that ties it all together in a wonderful harmony of flavors.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
This salad is best enjoyed right after assembling to ensure the lettuce stays cold and crisp while all the flavors are fresh and vibrant. It’s an easy yet impressive dish that’s sure to wow any dinner guest or family member.
How to Serve Wedge Salad with Creamy Buttermilk Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Consider finishing your wedges with freshly cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of chopped fresh chives for a subtle color pop and fresh herbal note. Crispy fried shallots or toasted nuts like pecans can also add an adventurous crunch and layered flavor that makes every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This wedge salad pairs beautifully with grilled steaks, roasted chicken, or even a simple piece of garlic bread. It’s versatile enough to be a standout starter or a bright accompaniment to a hearty main course. The creamy dressing and fresh toppings complement rich proteins perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to switch things up, try serving the salad wedge style on a large platter for family-style dining or create a build-your-own wedge salad bar where guests can add toppings to their liking. You could also slice the wedges thinner for a more delicate presentation or add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately if possible—keep the lettuce wedges in an airtight container and the dressing in a sealed jar. This helps maintain the crispness of the lettuce. Dress the salad right before serving to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the fresh lettuce will become mushy and the dressing could separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating is not applicable. Instead, prepare fresh servings or salvage leftovers by creating a new salad base if needed, keeping the dressing and toppings consistent.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of lettuce for this salad?
While iceberg lettuce is traditional for its crispness and mild flavor, you can experiment with romaine or butter lettuce. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor profile will change slightly, but it can still be delicious.
What can I substitute for blue cheese?
If blue cheese isn’t your thing, try feta cheese for a milder tang or omit the cheese altogether. Goat cheese also works well to maintain creaminess with less intensity.
Is there a way to make the dressing healthier?
Absolutely! Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt and use light mayonnaise to reduce fat content without sacrificing creaminess. The dressing will still be flavorful and satisfying.
How long does the dressing keep in the refrigerator?
The creamy buttermilk dressing will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Always give it a good whisk before using if it separates.
Can I prepare the salad in advance?
It’s best to prep all components ahead but assemble right before serving. Chop your toppings and make the dressing in advance, but keep the lettuce wedges whole and chilled to maintain their crunch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a salad that’s both classic and bursting with flavor, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Wedge Salad with Creamy Buttermilk Dressing Recipe. It combines simple ingredients in a way that feels gourmet yet approachable. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining friends, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone asking for seconds. Go ahead, dive into that crunchy, creamy, savory experience — your taste buds will thank you.
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Wedge Salad with Creamy Buttermilk Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This classic Wedge Salad with Creamy Buttermilk Dressing features crisp iceberg lettuce wedges topped with a tangy and smooth dressing, crispy bacon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled blue cheese. It’s a refreshing, easy-to-make American salad perfect for a light meal or starter.
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 large head iceberg lettuce, cut into wedges
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
Dressing
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice (or white vinegar), minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Lettuce Wedges: Cut the large head of iceberg lettuce into 4 wedges. Arrange each wedge neatly on individual serving plates.
- Assemble the Salad: Spoon the creamy buttermilk dressing generously over each lettuce wedge, making sure to coat well for maximum flavor.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, and crumbled blue cheese evenly over the dressed lettuce wedges.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately while the lettuce remains cold and crisp for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- For a lighter dressing, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream.
- If blue cheese is not preferred, you can swap it with feta or omit cheese entirely.
