Cobb Salad

Cobb Salad is a classic American dish that combines fresh greens, crispy bacon, tender chicken, creamy avocado, and tangy blue cheese. This protein-packed salad is satisfying enough to be a full meal while remaining light and refreshing. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or a quick and easy dinner, Cobb Salad is a fantastic choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious meal
• Customizable with your favorite salad ingredients
• Perfect for meal prep and easy to store
• A delicious balance of textures and flavors
• Great for entertaining or a simple weeknight dinner

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Romaine lettuce or mixed greens
• Cooked chicken breast, diced
• Crispy bacon, crumbled
• Hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• Avocado, sliced
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Blue cheese, crumbled
• Green onions, chopped (optional)
• Red wine vinaigrette or your preferred dressing
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare all ingredients by chopping the lettuce, dicing the chicken, cooking and crumbling the bacon, and slicing the avocado.
2. Arrange the lettuce in a large serving bowl or individual plates.
3. Neatly arrange the toppings in rows over the lettuce: chicken, bacon, eggs, avocado, tomatoes, blue cheese, and green onions.
4. Drizzle with red wine vinaigrette or your preferred dressing.
5. Toss the salad just before serving, or leave it arranged for a beautiful presentation.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use turkey, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken.
• Cheese Options: Substitute blue cheese with feta, goat cheese, or cheddar.
• Dressing Choices: Try ranch, balsamic vinaigrette, or honey mustard for a different flavor.
• Add More Greens: Mix in spinach, kale, or arugula for added nutrients.
• Extra Crunch: Toss in croutons, nuts, or sunflower seeds.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.
• Reheating: If using pre-cooked chicken or bacon, warm them slightly before adding to the salad.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Prep all ingredients separately and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh.

FAQs

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Squeeze a little lemon or lime juice over the sliced avocado to slow down oxidation.

Can I make Cobb Salad ahead of time?

Yes! Store ingredients separately and assemble just before serving for the best texture.

What is the best dressing for Cobb Salad?

Red wine vinaigrette is traditional, but ranch, blue cheese, or balsamic vinaigrette work well too.

Is Cobb Salad keto-friendly?

Yes, it is naturally low in carbs, but be mindful of added sugars in store-bought dressings.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for quick and easy preparation.

What can I use instead of bacon?

Try turkey bacon, pancetta, or even crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

How do I hard-boil eggs perfectly?

Boil eggs for 9-12 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath for easy peeling.

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Yes, romaine, iceberg, spinach, or mixed greens all work well.

How do I make this salad dairy-free?

Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

What’s the origin of Cobb Salad?

Cobb Salad was created in the 1930s at the Hollywood Brown Derby restaurant by owner Robert Cobb.

Conclusion

Cobb Salad is a timeless and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and packed with fresh ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, it’s a versatile meal that never disappoints. With endless customization options, you can make it your own and enjoy a delicious, wholesome salad anytime!

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