Cos Wedge Salad Recipe

Introduction

The Cos Wedge Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that has quickly become a favorite in our household. Its crunchy lettuce and creamy dressing, combined with the zing of pickled onions and the heartiness of crispy chicken, make it an exciting choice for lunch or dinner. The first time I served it, my family couldn’t get enough; they loved how the flavors complemented each other so perfectly. It’s an easy-to-make salad that feels indulgent but is packed with fresh ingredients. Perfect for summer barbecues or a light weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 6 slices of crispy chicken (grilled or fried)
• 4 tablespoons fresh breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic granules
• 80g blue cheese, crumbled
• 150ml buttermilk
• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
• Small handful of dill, chopped
• 10 cherry tomatoes
• 2 baby cos lettuces

Instructions

Pickle the Onion

1. In a small bowl, combine the red onion with apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), a pinch of salt, and 1 tablespoon of water.
2. Set aside to lightly pickle while you prepare the other ingredients.

Cook Chicken and Breadcrumbs

1. Cook the crispy chicken (grilled or fried) until golden and crispy, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a frying pan, add the breadcrumbs, mustard powder, garlic granules, and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown. Set aside.

Make the Dressing

1. In a large jug, whisk together the blue cheese, buttermilk, mayonnaise, and most of the chopped dill until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Salad

1. Quarter the cherry tomatoes and cut the lettuces in half lengthwise.
2. Place the lettuce wedges on serving plates, cut-side up, and generously pour the dressing over them.
3. Drain the pickled onion and scatter it on top, along with the cherry tomatoes and crispy chicken pieces.
4. Garnish with the remaining dill for an extra pop of flavor.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Presentation: Serve the salad on individual plates for a beautiful presentation.
• Accompaniments:
• Pair with crusty bread or breadsticks.
• Serve alongside grilled meats or fish for a complete meal.
• Drinks: Enjoy with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Additional Tips

1. Crispy Chicken: Use leftover fried chicken for a quick option, or opt for store-bought crispy chicken to save time.
2. Blue Cheese: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, substitute with feta or goat cheese for a milder flavor.
3. Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables, such as cucumber or avocado, for a vegetarian version.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing and pickled onions in advance to save time on serving day.
5. Garnishing: Add toasted nuts or seeds for an extra crunch and flavor boost.

Recipe Variations

• Greek Twist: Add Kalamata olives and diced cucumbers for a Greek-inspired variation.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate some diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce into the dressing for heat.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Change up the toppings with seasonal fruits like peaches or berries for a fresh twist.
• Different Greens: Substitute baby kale or arugula for a peppery flavor instead of cos lettuce.
• Different Proteins: Swap out chicken for grilled shrimp or sliced steak for variety.

Serving Suggestions

• Main Course: Serve as a main dish for lunch or dinner, adding grilled shrimp or steak to the salad for more protein.
• Side Salad: Perfect as a side dish for barbecues or family gatherings.
• Picnic Salad: Pack in a container for picnics or potlucks.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing can be made ahead and stored separately.
• Freezing: This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh ingredients; it’s best enjoyed fresh.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use regular lettuce instead of cos?

• Yes, you can use any type of lettuce, but cos provides a nice crunch.

1. How do I make the dressing healthier?

• Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise and reduce the amount of blue cheese.

1. Can I make this salad vegan?

• Yes, use a vegan mayonnaise and omit the chicken, replacing it with chickpeas for protein.

1. What can I use instead of buttermilk?

• Mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to create a buttermilk substitute.

1. How can I add more flavor to the chicken?

• Marinate the chicken in your favorite spices or sauces before cooking for added flavor.

1. What if I don’t have dill?

• You can substitute dill with fresh chives or parsley for a different herbal note.

1. Can I prepare this salad in advance?

• Yes, prepare the components in advance but assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Keep leftover salad in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container, but consume the dressing separately.

1. Is this salad gluten-free?

• Yes, as long as you use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

1. What can I pair this salad with?
   • This salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a larger spread for gatherings.

Conclusion

The Cos Wedge Salad is a delightful dish that brings a refreshing twist to any meal. With its combination of crispy chicken, creamy blue cheese dressing, and the brightness of pickled onions, it’s sure to be a hit at your table. Whether served as a main dish or a side, this salad is versatile and adaptable, making it perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, and enjoy making this delicious salad that your family will love!

Print