5-Minute Wedge Salad Recipe – The Big Man’s World ®

My classic wedge salad recipe combines crisp iceberg lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crispy bacon, all drizzled with a tangy blue cheese dressing. It’s simple yet elegant and so easy to make. 

The first time I tried a wedge salad at a steakhouse, I had very low expectations. A salad based around iceberg lettuce? Well, my friends, I ate my words (and the salad), and it left me wondering why something so simple tasted so good.

The biggest lesson I learned when making wedge salads at home is to keep the lettuce as cold and dry as possible. That crisp, chilled lettuce is the perfect contrast to the warm bacon, juicy tomatoes, and creamy blue cheese dressing. I also like to keep the toppings finely chopped, as I found they cling to the lettuce much better and ensure you get a little bit of everything in each bite. 

Arman’s tips before starting

• Keep the lettuce cold and dry. This is the biggest secret to a great wedge salad. After washing the iceberg lettuce, dry it thoroughly and keep it chilled until you’re ready to assemble. The crisp, cold lettuce is what makes the salad so refreshing. 
• Leave a little of the core intact. I know it’s tempting to cut the entire stem out, but resist the urge. I like to trim away the toughest part and leave a small section behind so the wedges stay together while serving.
• Assemble just before serving. Wedge salads are at their best when the lettuce is crisp and the toppings are fresh, so I wait until the last minute to add the dressing and garnishes. 

Key Ingredients

• Iceberg lettuce. Look for a big head of iceberg lettuce with no bruises. Make sure to wash it and remove any wilted outer leaves. 
• Cherry tomatoes. Quartered. I prefer cherry tomatoes because they’re sweeter and juicier. For a pop of color, look for a mix of tomatoes in different colors. 
• Onion. I suggest using red onions for their color and because they tend to be milder in flavor. 
• Spring onion. Thinly sliced. 
• Blue cheese crumbles. For that tangy flavor and creamy texture. 
• Fried bacon. Because bacon makes everything better! Keep the salad lighter with my air fryer turkey bacon.
• Blue cheese dressing. My homemade version combines mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, blue cheese, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper.

How to make a wedge salad

This is an overview with step-by-step photos. Full ingredients & instructions are in the recipe card below.

Step 1- In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients. 

Step 2- Remove the outer leaves of the iceberg. Slice it into 4 wedges.

Step 3- Place the iceberg wedges on the serving tray. Drizzle with blue cheese dressing.

Step 4- Sprinkle the rest of the ingredients on top and serve.

Originally published June 2023, updated June 2026