Cobb Salad is a hearty, colorful American classic loaded with crisp greens, savory proteins, and fresh vegetables. Topped with a tangy, creamy homemade dressing, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Each bite offers a balance of flavors and textures, making it a beloved staple for salad lovers.

ingredients

Cobb Salad with the Best Dressing 10 Cobb Salad is a hearty, colorful American classic loaded with crisp greens, savory proteins, and fresh vegetables. Topped with a tangy, creamy homemade dressing, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Each bite offers a balance of flavors and textures, making it a beloved staple for salad lovers.

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

For the Salad

romaine lettuce
cherry tomatoes
hard-boiled eggs
avocado
grilled chicken breast
cooked bacon
blue cheese crumbles
red onion (optional)

For the Dressing

red wine vinegar
Dijon mustard
garlic
lemon juice
olive oil
Worcestershire sauce
salt
black pepper

directions

Wash and chop the romaine lettuce, then place it in a large serving bowl or platter.

Arrange rows of halved cherry tomatoes, sliced hard-boiled eggs, diced avocado, sliced grilled chicken, crumbled cooked bacon, and blue cheese over the lettuce.

For the dressing, whisk together red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.

Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking until the dressing emulsifies and thickens slightly.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving or serve on the side.

Toss gently if desired, or allow guests to plate their own portions.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time (for bacon and chicken): 15–20 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

Swap grilled chicken with turkey, steak, or shrimp for a different protein source.
Use feta or goat cheese instead of blue cheese for a milder flavor.
Add cucumber or corn for extra crunch and sweetness.
Try a ranch or balsamic dressing for a twist on the classic.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Keep the dressing in a sealed jar and shake well before each use.
Avoid freezing, as fresh ingredients like lettuce and avocado do not thaw well.
To reheat chicken or bacon, warm in a skillet or microwave before adding to the salad.

FAQs

Can I make Cobb Salad ahead of time?
Yes, prep all ingredients and store separately. Assemble just before serving for freshness.

Is there a vegetarian version of Cobb Salad?
Yes, skip the bacon and chicken, and add beans, tofu, or tempeh.

Can I use store-bought dressing?
Yes, but homemade dressing enhances the flavor and is easy to make.

What type of lettuce works best?
Romaine is preferred for its crunch, but mixed greens or iceberg can be used.

How long do hard-boiled eggs last in the fridge?
They can be stored, peeled or unpeeled, for up to 1 week.

Is Cobb Salad keto-friendly?
Yes, just skip the tomatoes or use them sparingly to reduce carbs.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely, it’s a convenient and flavorful option.

What’s the best way to cook bacon for salad?
Bake it in the oven for even crispness and less mess.

Is blue cheese necessary?
No, substitute with your favorite cheese or omit entirely.

What can I serve with Cobb Salad?
It pairs well with crusty bread or a light soup.

Conclusion

Cobb Salad with the Best Dressing is a fresh, filling meal packed with protein, healthy fats, and vibrant produce. It’s customizable, quick to prepare, and great for meal prepping or entertaining. With its bold flavors and creamy dressing, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe lineup.