Classic Cobb Salad Recipe – A Healthy and Delicious Meal
The Cobb Salad is a classic American dish known for its delicious mix of fresh vegetables, protein-packed meats, and creamy dressing. Originating from the Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood in the 1930s, this hearty salad has become a favorite for those looking for a nutritious yet satisfying meal. A perfect balance of flavors and textures, the Cobb Salad is not only visually appealing but also offers numerous health benefits. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or a quick lunch, this recipe will guide you to making the best Cobb Salad at home.
Nutrition Information
A serving of Cobb Salad provides a well-balanced meal with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Below is the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Protein: 42g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fats: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Active Time: 10 minutes
- Resting Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisines: American
- Course: Main Course, Salad
- Servings: 4
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Large serving platter or bowl
- Small whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl (for dressing)
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 2 cups mixed greens (optional)
- 2 chicken breasts, grilled and diced
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then crumble.
- Hard-boil the eggs by placing them in a saucepan, covering them with water, and bringing to a boil. Reduce heat and let them simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from water, cool, peel, and chop.
- Grill the chicken breasts with salt and pepper until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Let them rest for a few minutes before dicing.
- Slice the avocado, tomatoes, and red onion. Crumble the blue cheese and chop the chives if using.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- Arrange the chopped romaine lettuce and mixed greens evenly in a large serving bowl or platter.
- Neatly arrange the grilled chicken, crumbled bacon, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and blue cheese in rows over the greens.
- Sprinkle with fresh chives for an extra touch of flavor.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and sugar.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing emulsifies.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving or serve on the side.
- Toss gently if preferred, or keep the ingredients arranged for a visually stunning presentation.
- Enjoy your homemade Cobb Salad!
Tips and Variations
- Make it Vegetarian: Swap chicken and bacon for chickpeas or grilled tofu.
- Dressing Alternatives: Use ranch, blue cheese dressing, or balsamic vinaigrette.
- Add Crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts or croutons.
- Meal Prep: Store ingredients separately and assemble when ready to eat.
The Cobb Salad Recipe is an excellent meal choice for anyone looking for a nutritious, protein-rich, and delicious dish. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.