BLT Wedge Salad Recipe
BLT Wedge Salad takes everything you love about a classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich and turns it into a crisp, refreshing salad. A thick wedge of chilled iceberg lettuce is piled high with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and a cool, creamy dressing for a dish that is as satisfying as it is simple.
This salad is perfect as a light lunch, a starter, or a fresh side for any meal. It comes together in minutes, needs no cooking beyond the bacon, and always looks impressive on the plate. If you love big flavor with minimal effort, this is the recipe for you.
What Is BLT Wedge Salad
BLT Wedge Salad is a fresh spin on the beloved BLT sandwich, served as a hearty salad instead of between slices of bread. It starts with a crisp wedge of iceberg lettuce, which stays cold and crunchy and acts as the perfect base for the toppings.
On top you get all the classic BLT flavors: smoky, crispy bacon, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a creamy dressing that ties it together. Some versions add a sprinkle of cheese, chives, or croutons for extra texture, making it feel both familiar and special.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
There is a lot to love about this BLT Wedge Salad. It delivers big, bold flavor with just a handful of ingredients, and the contrast between the cold, crunchy lettuce and the warm, crispy bacon is irresistible. It comes together in about 15 minutes.
It is also a real showstopper. The wedge presentation looks elegant enough for guests but is easy enough for a weeknight. Whether you serve it as a starter or a light meal, it is guaranteed to disappear fast.
Ingredients You Will Need
- Iceberg lettuce: 1 large head, cut into 4 wedges
- Bacon: 8 slices, cooked crispy and crumbled
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Red onion: 1/4 cup, finely diced
- Blue cheese or ranch dressing: 1/2 cup
- Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup
- Buttermilk: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh chives: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Black pepper: to taste
How to Make BLT Wedge Salad Step-by-Step
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, around 350 degrees F, then drain on paper towels and crumble.
- Remove any wilted outer leaves from the iceberg lettuce, then cut the head into 4 even wedges, keeping the core intact so they hold together.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing, mayonnaise, and buttermilk until smooth and pourable.
- Place each lettuce wedge on a plate and drizzle generously with the creamy dressing.
- Top with the crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced red onion.
- Sprinkle with fresh chives and a crack of black pepper.
- Serve immediately while the lettuce is cold and crisp.
Tips and Variations
Make this salad your own with these ideas:
- Add avocado: Diced avocado brings extra creaminess.
- Swap the dressing: Try a homemade ranch or a light vinaigrette.
- Add a protein: Top with grilled chicken or a soft boiled egg for a full meal.
- Use different greens: A romaine heart works if you prefer it over iceberg.
A few tips for the best wedge salad:
- Chill the lettuce before serving so it stays extra crisp.
- Cook the bacon until very crispy for the best crunch.
- Dress the salad right before serving so the lettuce does not wilt.
Storage Tips and Frequently Asked Questions
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the components ahead. Store the cooked bacon, chopped vegetables, and dressing separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days, then assemble just before serving.
Can I make this salad ahead of time? You can prep all the toppings and dressing ahead, but wait to cut and dress the lettuce until you are ready to serve.
How do I keep the lettuce crisp? Keep the whole head chilled and only cut it right before assembling the salad.
What dressing works best? Blue cheese and ranch are classic, but any creamy dressing you love will work well.
Can I make it lighter? Yes. Use a lighter dressing and turkey bacon to cut down on richness.
Final Thoughts
BLT Wedge Salad is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly crave worthy. With crisp lettuce, smoky bacon, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy dressing, every bite delivers the classic BLT flavor you love in a fresh, fun new form.
Try it the next time you want a quick lunch or an impressive starter. It is easy, fast, and endlessly adaptable, and it is sure to become a go to favorite in your recipe collection.