Chopped Wedge Salad

“THAT DRESSING. I’m putting it on everything now. It could make a piece of cardboard taste good.”

### Bacon & Blue Cheese Chopped Salad

This chopped salad is a perfect blend of crisp lettuce, smoky bacon, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy, creamy blue cheese dressing. It’s a refreshing and satisfying dish that can be served as a side or a light main meal.

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#### **Ingredients**

**For the Salad:**
– **1 head iceberg lettuce**, cored, quartered, and chopped – Adds crunch and freshness.
– **1 romaine lettuce heart**, cored and chopped – For extra texture and variety.
– **8 slices bacon**, cooked and crumbled – Brings a salty, smoky flavor.
– **2 cups cherry tomatoes**, halved – Adds sweetness and acidity.
– **¼ cup fresh chives**, chopped – For a mild onion-like flavor.

**For the Dressing:**
– **½ cup buttermilk** – Provides a tangy base.
– **¾ cup mayonnaise** – Adds creaminess.
– **¾ cup sour cream** – Makes the dressing rich and thick.
– **1½ cups blue cheese**, crumbled and divided – A bold, tangy element.
– **½ teaspoon garlic powder** – For subtle garlicky depth.
– **2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce** – Brings umami and depth of flavor.
– **Juice of 1 lemon** – Adds brightness and acidity.
– **2 tablespoons fresh chives**, chopped – For extra herby flavor.
– **Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper**, to taste – For seasoning.

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#### **Preparation**

**1. Assemble the Salad:**
– In a large bowl, combine the **chopped iceberg lettuce**, **romaine lettuce**, **crumbled bacon**, **cherry tomatoes**, and **¼ cup chopped chives**. Toss gently to mix.

**2. Make the Dressing:**
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the **½ cup buttermilk**, **¾ cup mayonnaise**, **¾ cup sour cream**, **½ of the crumbled blue cheese**, **½ teaspoon garlic powder**, **2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce**, **juice of 1 lemon**, and **2 tablespoons chopped chives**.
– Season with **kosher salt** and **freshly ground black pepper** to taste.

**3. Combine and Serve:**
– Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
– Top with the remaining **crumbled blue cheese** for an extra punch of flavor.
– Serve immediately and enjoy!

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This salad is the perfect combination of crisp, creamy, and savory flavors. The dressing, packed with blue cheese and chive goodness, elevates the freshness of the lettuce and tomatoes, while the bacon adds just the right amount of smokiness. It’s a wonderful option for a barbecue, potluck, or a satisfying meal on its own!