There’s something undeniably fresh and satisfying about a classic wedge salad, but when we add a vibrant Green Goddess dressing, it transforms into a show-stopping dish. This Green Goddess Wedge Salad Recipe combines crisp iceberg lettuce with a creamy, herb-packed dressing that’s bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect balance of cool crunch and rich zest that’s sure to impress at any meal.
Ingredients
To create our Green Goddess Wedge Salad, we need fresh, crisp ingredients paired with a vibrant, herb-packed dressing. Below is a detailed list to help us gather exactly what we need.
For the Salad
- 1 large head iceberg lettuce, quartered and chilled for crispness
- 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved for juicy bursts of flavor
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese or feta cheese for a tangy accent
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced red onion for sharp, pungent notes
For the Green Goddess Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise for creamy richness
- ½ cup sour cream to add tang and smooth texture
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice for brightness
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar to balance acidity
- 1 cup packed fresh parsley, chopped finely for herbaceous freshness
- ½ cup packed fresh chives, chopped
- ½ cup packed fresh tarragon leaves, stems removed and chopped
- 2 teaspoons anchovy paste or 3 anchovy fillets for umami depth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced for pungency
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishes and Toppings
- Additional fresh herbs like parsley and chives, finely chopped for garnish
- Extra crumbled blue cheese or feta for topping
- A few capers for a salty, tangy punch (optional)
- Fresh cracked black pepper for finishing touch
| Ingredient Category | Key Ingredients | Quantity/Note |
|---|---|---|
| Salad | Iceberg Lettuce | 1 large head, quartered |
| Bacon | 4 thick-cut slices, crispy | |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 1 cup, halved | |
| Crumbled Blue Cheese or Feta | ½ cup | |
| Red Onion | 2 tablespoons, thinly sliced | |
| Dressing | Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Sour Cream | ½ cup | |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | 2 tablespoons | |
| White Wine Vinegar | 1 tablespoon | |
| Fresh Parsley | 1 cup, packed, chopped | |
| Fresh Chives | ½ cup, packed, chopped | |
| Fresh Tarragon | ½ cup, packed, chopped | |
| Anchovy Paste or Anchovy Fillets | 2 teaspoons paste or 3 fillets | |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | |
| Salt and Black Pepper | To taste | |
| Garnishes and Toppings | Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Chives) | As needed for garnish |
| Extra Crumbled Cheese | As desired | |
| Capers (optional) | A few for flavor | |
| Black Pepper | Freshly cracked, to finish |
Equipment Needed
To create our vibrant Green Goddess Wedge Salad, gathering the right equipment is essential for a smooth and efficient preparation process. Below is a detailed list of the tools we will use to craft the crisp wedge, perfectly blended dressing, and artful garnishes.
Essential Tools for Salad Preparation
- Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the iceberg lettuce into perfect wedges and chopping ingredients like red onion and cherry tomatoes.
- Large Salad Bowl: To hold the crisp lettuce wedges while assembling and serving.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the Green Goddess dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy.
- Whisk or Hand Blender: To emulsify the tangy dressing with fresh herbs and anchovy paste, achieving that signature herb-infused flavor.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate measurement of mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, vinegar, and herbs, ensuring consistent taste.
Optional But Helpful Equipment
- Salad Server or Tongs: To handle the delicate wedges without bruising the lettuce.
- Small Bowls or ramekins: If you prefer to pre-measure the garnishes such as bacon bits, crumbled cheese, and capers.
- Zester or Microplane Grater: If adding any extra lemon zest to enhance the dressing brightness.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Knife | Cutting lettuce, vegetables, and garnishes |
| Cutting Board | Safe surface for chopping |
| Large Salad Bowl | Holding and serving the salad |
| Mixing Bowl | Combining ingredients for the dressing |
| Whisk/Hand Blender | Emulsifying dressing ingredients |
| Measuring Spoons/Cups | Accurate ingredient quantities |
| Salad Server/Tongs | Handling salad wedges without damage |
| Small Bowls/Ramekins | Organizing garnishes seamlessly |
| Zester/Microplane | Adding lemon zest for dressing complexity |
With these tools at our disposal, we can efficiently assemble the Green Goddess Wedge Salad ensuring every component shines from crisp iceberg to luscious herb dressing.
Prep Work
Before assembling our Green Goddess Wedge Salad we focus on prep work to ensure every element complements perfectly. Proper preparation guarantees crisp texture vibrant flavors and smooth dressing integration.
Preparing the Lettuce Wedges
Start with fresh iceberg lettuce head chilled for extra crunch. We follow these steps:
- Remove outer leaves if wilted or damaged.
- Rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt.
- Pat dry or spin in a salad spinner until completely dry.
- Cut the head into quarters, slicing straight down to create firm wedge shapes.
- Trim the core slightly for easier eating but keep wedges intact for presentation.
This meticulous preparation preserves the crisp cool crunch that defines the classic wedge salad experience.
Making the Green Goddess Dressing
Our Green Goddess dressing combines creamy texture with bold herbaceous notes. We use:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Prep Details |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Use full-fat for richness |
| Sour Cream | ¼ cup | Adds tanginess |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp | Strain seeds |
| White Wine Vinegar | 1 tsp | For acidity |
| Fresh Parsley | 2 tbsp chopped | Flat-leaf preferred |
| Fresh Chives | 1 tbsp chopped | Mild onion flavor |
| Fresh Tarragon | 1 tsp chopped | Adds anise-like aroma |
| Anchovy Paste | ½ tsp | Intensifies umami depth |
| Garlic | 1 clove minced | Fresh and finely minced |
| Salt | To taste | Balance flavors |
| Freshly Cracked Pepper | To taste | For slight heat |
Steps:
- Combine mayonnaise sour cream lemon juice and white wine vinegar in a mixing bowl.
- Add finely chopped herbs garlic and anchovy paste.
- Whisk vigorously or use a hand blender to emulsify until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper adjusting to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes allowing flavors to meld.
Chopping Garnishes
To elevate our salad visually and flavor-wise we prep garnishes carefully:
- Cherry tomatoes: Halve evenly for bursts of juicy sweetness.
- Crispy bacon: Cook until golden and crisp then chop into bite-size pieces.
- Crumbled blue cheese or feta: Break into irregular chunks for rustic appeal.
- Red onion: Slice thinly for sharpness and color contrast.
- Additional herbs: Chop extra parsley chives or tarragon for final sprinkle.
By preparing these garnishes in advance we ensure easy assembly and a salad bursting with balanced texture and flavor in every bite.
Instructions
Follow these clear steps to assemble and finish our Green Goddess Wedge Salad so it delivers the perfect balance of crisp texture and vibrant flavor.
Assembling the Green Goddess Wedge Salad
- Place each iceberg lettuce wedge on a large serving plate. Ensure the cut side faces up for easy dressing coverage.
- Distribute the halved cherry tomatoes evenly around and atop each wedge.
- Sprinkle the chopped crispy bacon generously over the lettuce to add smoky crunch.
- Scatter thinly sliced red onion on and around the wedges for a mild sharpness.
- Crumble blue cheese or feta over the assembled salad. This adds a creamy tang that complements the dressing perfectly.
Drizzling the Dressing
To achieve that iconic Green Goddess flavor:
- Use a spoon or small ladle to drizzle the dressing evenly over each lettuce wedge.
- Aim for a generous and smooth coating that seeps into the crisp leaves but does not overwhelm the fresh crunch.
| Tip for Dressing Drizzle | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Drizzle slowly from above | Even distribution over wedges |
| Use a spoon or small ladle | Controlled portion size |
| Avoid pouring directly at base | Prevent sogginess of lettuce |
Adding Final Toppings
To finish the salad with a visually striking and flavor-rich touch:
- Sprinkle additional fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, and tarragon over the salad for both color and herbaceous aroma.
- Add a few capers for bursts of briny sharpness.
- Crack fresh black pepper liberally across the entire dish to heighten all flavor notes.
- Optionally, dust a light pinch of lemon zest over the wedges for subtle citrus brightness.
Serving Suggestions
To enjoy our Green Goddess Wedge Salad at its best, we recommend pairing it with protein-rich dishes and complementing textures that enhance its fresh, herbaceous flavor. Here are some ideal serving suggestions:
- Grilled or roasted meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken breast, steak, or pork chops to add a satisfying savory contrast to the crisp, creamy salad.
- Seafood options: Pair with seared salmon, grilled shrimp, or pan-fried scallops for a light yet indulgent meal.
- Vegetarian additions: Accompany with roasted vegetables or quinoa pilaf for a nutrient-dense, meat-free dinner.
To create a fully balanced plate, consider the following accompaniments:
| Protein Type | Suggested Dish | Flavor Contrast |
|---|---|---|
| Poultry | Grilled chicken with lemon thyme | Mild, herbaceous |
| Red Meat | Ribeye steak with peppercorn sauce | Rich, bold |
| Seafood | Seared salmon with dill | Fresh, buttery |
| Vegetarian | Roasted sweet potatoes | Earthy, sweet |
We also recommend serving the Green Goddess Wedge Salad chilled to maintain its crispness and freshness. Use chilled plates or bowls to keep the salad cool longer, especially when serving outdoors or at gatherings.
For presentation, garnish each wedge with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, and add a final crack of freshly ground black pepper. A few lemon wedges served on the side allow guests to add a zesty brightness if desired.
“The crisp iceberg lettuce combined with our vibrant Green Goddess Dressing truly shines best when served alongside simple, complementary dishes that highlight its cool crunch and rich flavors.”
Serving the salad with warm, toasted bread or garlic crostini can add welcomed texture. This provides an excellent vehicle to scoop up any extra dressing and toppings from the plate.
By pairing thoughtfully and serving at the optimal temperature, our Green Goddess Wedge Salad becomes a memorable centerpiece at any meal or event.
Make-Ahead Tips
To save time and keep our Green Goddess Wedge Salad fresh and vibrant, careful make-ahead planning is key. Here are several essential tips to prepare components ahead without sacrificing crispness or flavor.
Prepare and Store Lettuce Properly
- Rinse iceberg lettuce wedges thoroughly under cold water.
- Spin or pat dry completely to avoid sogginess.
- Wrap each wedge individually in a paper towel to absorb moisture.
- Place wrapped wedges in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Use within 24 hours for optimal crispness.
Make Dressing in Advance
- Whisk together Green Goddess dressing ingredients: mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lemon juice, white wine vinegar, fresh herbs (parsley, chives, tarragon), anchovy paste, and garlic.
- Store dressing in a sealed jar or container.
- Keep refrigerated up to 3 days.
- Before serving, whisk the dressing briefly to recombine any separated ingredients.
Prepare Garnishes Early
- Chop crispy bacon, halve cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice red onion.
- Place each garnish in separate airtight containers.
- Refrigerate up to 24 hours.
- This maintains bright color and fresh texture.
Assembly Timing
- Assemble salad just before serving to preserve the delicate balance of textures and flavors.
- Dress wedges gently and last to maintain crunch.
- Add garnishes immediately after dressing.
| Component | Preparation Time | Storage Time (Refrigerated) | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iceberg Lettuce | 10 minutes | Up to 24 hours | Wrap in paper towels, airtight container |
| Green Goddess Dressing | 15 minutes | Up to 3 days | Seal container tightly |
| Garnishes | 10 minutes | Up to 24 hours | Separate airtight containers |
Pro Tip: Wrapping lettuce wedges in paper towels is the secret to preserving crispness while preventing excess moisture.
When we follow these make-ahead tips, we ensure that every part of our Green Goddess Wedge Salad stays fresh and flavorful, making last-minute assembly both quick and impressive.
Conclusion
The Green Goddess Wedge Salad is a refreshing twist on a classic favorite that brings vibrant flavors and textures to the table. With its crisp lettuce, creamy herb dressing, and savory garnishes, it’s a dish that impresses without requiring complicated steps.
Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled proteins or as a standout vegetarian option, this salad fits perfectly into any meal. By prepping ingredients ahead and assembling just before serving, we ensure every bite stays fresh and delicious.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy a beautiful, flavorful salad that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Green Goddess Wedge Salad?
A Green Goddess Wedge Salad is a classic wedge of iceberg lettuce topped with a creamy, herb-infused Green Goddess dressing, crispy bacon, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese or feta, and red onions. It combines crisp texture with rich, fresh flavors.
What ingredients are needed for the Green Goddess dressing?
The dressing includes mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lemon juice, white wine vinegar, parsley, chives, tarragon, anchovy paste, and garlic, blended smoothly for a creamy, herbaceous flavor.
How do I prepare the iceberg lettuce for the wedge salad?
Rinse and dry the lettuce thoroughly, then cut it into wedges while keeping the core intact to maintain crispness and structure for easy dressing application.
Can the Green Goddess dressing be made in advance?
Yes, the dressing can be made up to three days ahead and stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Be sure to whisk it again before serving.
What equipment do I need to make this salad?
Essential tools include a sharp knife, cutting board, large salad bowl, mixing bowl, and a whisk or hand blender. Optional tools are salad servers, small bowls for garnishes, and a zester.
How should I serve the Green Goddess Wedge Salad?
Serve chilled alongside grilled chicken, steak, seafood, or vegetarian dishes like roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and serve with toasted bread or crostini.
How can I prevent the salad from getting soggy?
Dress the salad just before serving, drizzle the dressing evenly but in controlled amounts, and keep the lettuce wedges dry until assembly to maintain crispness.
Can I prepare garnishes ahead of time?
Yes, crispy bacon, tomatoes, and red onions can be prepped and stored separately in the fridge to keep them fresh and ready for quick salad assembly.
What garnishes enhance the Green Goddess Wedge Salad?
Additional fresh herbs, crumbled blue cheese or feta, capers, freshly cracked black pepper, and a touch of lemon zest enhance both flavor and presentation.