The classic Cobb salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines crisp lettuce, savory bacon, hard-boiled eggs, fresh vegetables, and shredded cheese. This iconic salad is known for its colorful presentation and balanced mix of textures and flavors. Perfect as a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or a meal prep staple, this recipe is easy to prepare and endlessly customizable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cobb salad recipe is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients and protein. Each bite delivers a delicious combination of crisp greens, creamy avocado, crunchy bacon, and juicy tomatoes. It’s a low-carb, gluten-free option that can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish. With minimal prep and no cooking beyond the bacon and eggs, this salad is both quick and satisfying — ideal for busy days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 avocado, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a large salad bowl or on a serving platter, arrange the chopped romaine lettuce as the base.
- Neatly layer the sliced hard-boiled eggs, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions across the top in individual rows.
- If using, add sliced avocado for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing, or serve the dressing on the side.
- Toss gently before serving, or enjoy as a composed salad with each ingredient displayed separately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Grilled Chicken Cobb: Add grilled chicken breast slices for an even heartier, high-protein version.
- Vegetarian Cobb: Skip the bacon and add chickpeas or roasted tofu for a plant-based protein option.
- Blue Cheese Lovers: Use crumbled blue cheese instead of cheddar and pair with a creamy blue cheese dressing.
- Keto-Friendly: Swap the cherry tomatoes for more avocado and use full-fat dressing to keep it keto.
- Spring Cobb: Add seasonal ingredients like asparagus tips, radishes, or fresh herbs for a refreshing twist.
Storage/Reheating
Cobb salad is best enjoyed fresh, but individual components can be prepared ahead and stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture. Do not freeze. If using dressing, add just before eating to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prep all ingredients in advance and store separately. Assemble just before serving for the best texture.
What’s the best dressing for Cobb salad?
Classic options include ranch, blue cheese, or a simple vinaigrette. Choose based on your taste preference.
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Yes, butter lettuce, iceberg, or a spring mix can be used instead of romaine.
How do I cook perfect hard-boiled eggs?
Place eggs in cold water, bring to a boil, then simmer for 10–12 minutes. Cool in an ice bath before peeling.
Is Cobb salad gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure the dressing is gluten-free as well.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Add bell peppers, shredded carrots, or radishes for more crunch and color.
What cheese works best besides cheddar?
Blue cheese, feta, or goat cheese are excellent alternatives depending on your flavor preference.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, keep each ingredient stored separately and assemble the salad just before eating for freshness.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, omit the cheese and use a dairy-free dressing to make this salad dairy-free.
What protein can I add instead of bacon?
Grilled chicken, turkey, hard-boiled egg whites, or even shrimp can be used as alternative protein options.
Conclusion
Classic Cobb salad is a timeless, nutritious meal that’s full of color, texture, and flavor. With fresh vegetables, savory toppings, and a creamy dressing, it’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or entertaining guests. Easy to customize and even easier to love, this salad is a satisfying choice that never goes out of style.
Print
Classic Cobb Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Classic Cobb Salad is a fresh, protein-packed dish layered with crisp romaine, hard-boiled eggs, bacon, cheese, and vibrant vegetables. Perfect as a light lunch or hearty dinner, it’s a low-carb, flavor-rich favorite that’s quick to prep and totally customizable.
Ingredients
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 avocado, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
Instructions
- Arrange chopped romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl.
- Layer sliced hard-boiled eggs, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions in neat rows.
- Add sliced avocado if using.
- Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing, or serve it on the side.
- Toss before serving or enjoy as a composed salad.
Notes
- Swap cheddar for blue cheese for a more traditional Cobb twist.
- Use rotisserie chicken or grilled turkey for added protein.
- Perfect for meal prep—just add dressing when ready to eat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Lunch, Main Dish
- Method: Assembling, No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
