The Drunken Wedge A Variation Of The Classic Wedge Salad Recipe

This bourbon-infused wedge salad brings a fun twist to a classic favorite, combining the hearty crunch of iceberg with the luxurious taste of bacon and blue cheese. I love how the bourbon adds a unique depth to the ranch dressing, making each bite feel adventurous and bold.

Introducing The Drunken Wedge, my twist on the classic wedge salad. The way the crispy iceberg lettuce teams up with the creamy ranch dressing and blue cheese crumbles is something I adore.

They are a match made in heaven, a classic case of opposites attracting. Even better, tossing those ingredients with some bourbon, then adding a beat-up slab of bacon and some cute, plump cherry tomatoes?

That’s next level.

Ingredients

Iceberg Lettuce:
A basic salad that is low in calories, high in water, and very crispy indeed.

Blue Cheese Crumbles:
Offers a tangy flavor and is rich in protein and calcium.

Bacon:
Imparts a robust, delicious umami character, packs in the protein, and makes it a real rich and indulgent burger.

Cherry Tomatoes:
These fruits are sweet, juicy, and an excellent source of vitamins A and C.

Ranch Dressing:
Herbs enrich the flavor profile of the creamy texture.

Bourbon:
Infuses warmth and subtle sweetness, a singular twist.

Ingredient Quantities

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• 1 head of iceberg lettuce, cut into quarters
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

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Instructions

1. To prepare the bourbon-infused dressing, start with a small bowl. In it, combine the ranch dressing and bourbon, mixing them until they are well integrated. This should yield about ¼ cup of dressing, enough to generously coat the salad. Set it aside when finished.

2. Rinse the entire head of iceberg lettuce under cold water, then dry it with a kitchen towel. Slice the head of lettuce into quarters, making sure to cut through the core. You should now have four pieces that are roughly wedge-shaped.

3. Put each wedge of lettuce on its own serving plate, with the cut side facing up.

4. Distribute the halved cherry tomatoes evenly over the tops of the lettuce wedges.

5. Generously sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the lettuce topped with tomatoes.

6. Fry the thick-cut bacon until it is crispy. Then, break it up into small pieces. This is something you could ask your partner to help you with, as I did. Once the bacon is crumbled, lay it over the top of each wedge salad so that it is spread evenly across the plate.

7. Slice the red onion into thin pieces and distribute them over each of the wedges to provide a flavor that is sharp and tangy.

8. Evenly and evenly drizzle the prepared bourbon-infused ranch dressing over the wedges so that it cascades beautifully over all the ingredients.

9. Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste are the perfect ways to season each of the wedges.

10. Chopped fresh chives add the color and mild onion flavor that finish the experience of enjoying this eclectic mix of flavors that is a variation of the classic wedge salad. Serve immediately.

Equipment Needed

1. Small bowl
2. Mixing spoon
3. Kitchen towel
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Frying pan
7. Tongs
8. Serving plates (4)
9. Measuring cups
10. Measuring spoons

FAQ

• What is the preparation time for The Drunken Wedge Salad?Allow about 20 minutes for the preparation, assuming the bacon is already cooked.
• Can I substitute the blue cheese with another cheese?Certainly, you can use feta or gorgonzola as substitutes for a different flavor profile.
• Is it necessary to use bourbon, or can it be omitted?Bourbon gives the salad a distinctive twist, but you can leave it out for a non-boozy option.
• What can I use instead of ranch dressing?Blue cheese dressing can be used if you want to impart a stronger cheese flavor.
• How should the bourbon be incorporated in the recipe?The bourbon should be gently drizzled over the wedges, allowing it to to soak slightly before adding any other toppings.
• Can I prepare this salad in advance?The optimal preparation of this dish is fresh; however, you can prep the ingredients, with the exception of the dressing and the bourbon, a few hours ahead and assemble just before serving.
• Are there variations to make this salad vegetarian?Yes, just leave out the bacon or substitute it with plant-based bacon alternatives.

Substitutions and Variations

One head of romaine lettuce, divided into quarters.
1 cup tomato grapes, halved
1/2 cup crumbles of feta cheese
Four slices of turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/4 cup shallots, cut into thin slices
1/2 cup dressing made from blue cheese
1/4 cup of whiskey

Pro Tips

– Ensure the bourbon is of good quality; its flavor will subtly enhance the dressing. Consider simmering it for a couple of minutes before mixing with the ranch to slightly reduce the alcohol content while intensifying the flavor.
– For an added layer of flavor, consider lightly grilling or searing the wedge before assembling the salad. This adds a bit of smokiness and a warm contrast to the fresh ingredients.
– Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and texture. After cooking, drain it well on paper towels to keep it crispy and prevent the salad from becoming greasy.
– Chill your serving plates before assembling the salad. This helps keep the lettuce wedges crisp and refreshing.
– Consider toasting the crumbled blue cheese briefly in a pan to bring out a deeper flavor, giving the salad an unexpected and delightful twist.