Name: Cobb Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed greens (such as romaine, spinach, or a spring mix); 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced (grilled, roasted, or rotisserie chicken works great); 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and sliced; 1 avocado, diced; 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (or feta cheese if preferred); 4 slices cooked beef, crumbled; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, sliced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional); 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey (optional for a touch of sweetness); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

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A Cobb Salad is a classic American salad that’s hearty, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. It’s a beautiful combination of crisp lettuce, juicy chicken, creamy avocado, crispy beef, hard-boiled eggs, and tangy blue cheese, all drizzled with a delicious vinaigrette dressing. This salad is perfect as a main dish for lunch or dinner and can easily be customized to suit your dietary preferences. Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Cobb Salad is a complete, balanced meal in one bowl! It’s full of fresh, crunchy vegetables, flavorful proteins, and creamy textures. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing, low-carb meal or want something hearty to fuel you through the day, this salad has it all. The best part? It’s incredibly customizable, so you can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking. Plus, it’s simple and quick to prepare!

Cobb Salad Recipe

Ingredients

For the Salad:

4 cups mixed greens (such as romaine, spinach, or a spring mix)
1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced (grilled, roasted, or rotisserie chicken works great)
2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and sliced
1 avocado, diced
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (or feta cheese if preferred)
4 slices cooked beef, crumbled
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the salad ingredients: Wash and dry the mixed greens, then arrange them in a large bowl or on a platter. Slice the hard-boiled eggs, avocado, and cucumber. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the red onion thinly (if using).
Assemble the Cobb Salad: Arrange all the salad ingredients in neat rows on top of the greens for a colorful presentation. Start with the chicken, then add rows of beef, eggs, avocado, blue cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red apple cider, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine, or serve as is for a more visually appealing presentation.
Enjoy: Serve immediately, and enjoy this fresh, hearty Cobb Salad as a satisfying meal.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes (for cooking the chicken and beef if not pre-cooked)
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Protein variations: You can swap the chicken for grilled steak, shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different protein source.
Vegan version: Omit the chicken, beef, and blue cheese, and replace with plant-based protein like chickpeas, grilled tempeh, or seitan.
Cheese options: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, try feta, goat cheese, or shredded cheddar.
Dressing options: Swap the vinaigrette for a creamy dressing like ranch, Caesar, or a yogurt-based dressing for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though it’s best to store the dressing separately to avoid wilting the greens.
Reheating: This salad is meant to be served fresh, but if you have leftover chicken, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

FAQs

Can I make the Cobb Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the individual ingredients (chop the vegetables, cook the chicken, etc.) ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply assemble the salad and add the dressing.

Can I use other types of greens for the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of greens like arugula, baby kale, or mixed lettuce for variety and added flavor.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this Cobb Salad is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to check that your dressing ingredients and any store-bought items (like beef or chicken) are gluten-free.

How can I make the dressing spicier?

If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.

Can I make the Cobb Salad vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and beef, and add extra protein with beans (like chickpeas or black beans) or additional cheese and avocado.

Conclusion

This Cobb Salad is a flavorful, satisfying, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With protein-packed chicken, creamy avocado, crunchy veggies, and a tangy dressing, it’s a well-rounded dish that can easily be customized to your liking. Whether you enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish, this classic salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy this refreshing, protein-rich dish and feel good about what you’re eating!