Cobb Salad
A classic American chopped salad, famously created at the Brown Derby in Hollywood. It features a vibrant arrangement of ingredients in distinct rows over a bed of crisp greens, typically dressed with a tangy red wine vinaigrette.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 head Romaine lettuce
- 1/2 head Iceberg lettuce
- 2 medium Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 strips Bacon
- 4 Large eggs
- 2 Ripe avocados
- 1 cup Crumbled blue cheese
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup Red wine vinaigrette
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. You can grill, pan-sear, or bake them. For grilling, preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 200-230°C / 400-450°F). Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). For pan-searing, heat 1 tbsp of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook for 6-8 minutes per side. For baking, preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake for 20-25 minutes. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before dicing into bite-sized pieces.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 2
Cook the bacon: While the chicken cooks or rests, cook the bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the bacon on paper towels and then crumble or chop it into small pieces.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Prepare the greens: Wash and thoroughly dry the romaine and iceberg lettuces. Chop them into small, uniform pieces. This is key for the 'chopped' salad experience. Spread the chopped lettuce evenly over a large platter or individual serving bowls, creating a base.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Arrange the toppings: Artfully arrange the prepared ingredients in distinct, parallel rows across the bed of lettuce. The traditional rows include: diced chicken, crumbled bacon, quartered hard-boiled eggs, diced avocado, crumbled blue cheese, and halved cherry tomatoes (if using). Ensure the rows are neat and visually appealing.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 5
Serve: Present the salad to the table. Guests can then toss their individual portions with the red wine vinaigrette, or you can drizzle the dressing over the entire platter just before serving. Ensure enough dressing is available for everyone to enjoy.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of romaine and iceberg lettuce. Romaine provides crunch, while iceberg adds crispness.
- ✓Ensure all ingredients are chopped into similar, bite-sized pieces for a cohesive salad experience.
- ✓The distinct rows are a signature of the Cobb salad. Don't mix them until serving or eating.
- ✓Avocado is best added just before serving to prevent browning.
- ✓A good quality red wine vinaigrette is essential. You can also make your own by whisking together red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Substitute cooked shrimp or turkey for chicken.
- Omit blue cheese for those who prefer a milder flavor.
- Add other vegetables like corn, red onion, or bell peppers.
- Use a different dressing, such as a ranch or green goddess dressing.