Get ready to transform your ordinary lunch into an extraordinary culinary adventure with this mouthwatering California Cobb Salad! Imagine a vibrant bowl bursting with crisp romaine, juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and a show-stopping chipotle avocado ranch dressing that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe. This isn't just a salad; it's a gourmet experience that combines classic American flavors with a modern, irresistible twist that'll make you forget all about boring diet food.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon chipotle sauce
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl. Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl.
- Next, dice the avocado and add it to the salad bowl. Make sure to handle the avocado carefully to prevent browning. You can sprinkle a little lime juice over the avocado to keep it fresh.
- Take the cooked chicken and dice it into small pieces. If you are using leftover chicken, ensure it is heated through before adding it to the salad. Add the diced chicken to the bowl.
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Add the crumbled bacon to the salad mixture for added crunch and flavor.
- Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the top of the salad. This will add a rich, tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the chipotle avocado ranch dressing. Combine the ranch dressing, olive oil, and chipotle sauce. Whisk together until smooth and well combined.
- Drizzle the chipotle avocado ranch dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the dressing coats everything evenly.
- Serve the California Cobb Salad immediately, garnished with additional blue cheese or crispy bacon if desired. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful salad!
Tips
- Avocado Preservation: To prevent your avocado from browning, sprinkle a little lime juice over the diced pieces. This keeps them fresh and adds a subtle citrus brightness.
- Chicken Prep: Use leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken for an even faster meal prep. Ensure it's heated through before adding to the salad.
- Bacon Perfection: For extra crispy bacon, cook it in the oven on a baking sheet at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes. This method ensures even crispiness.
- Dressing Hack: Make the chipotle avocado ranch dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld and intensify, making your salad even more delicious.
- Customization: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preference. Grilled shrimp or hard-boiled eggs can be great protein alternatives.
- Serving Tip: Always add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad crisp and prevent soggy lettuce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 85mg
