Classic Cobb Salad Bowl

The iconic Cobb Salad Bowl represents American culinary ingenuity at its finest. Born in the Golden Age of Hollywood at the Brown Derby restaurant, this masterpiece combines hearty protein with fresh vegetables in perfect harmony. Each colorful row of ingredients tells a story of balance and satisfaction - the smokiness of bacon, the richness of blue cheese, and the bright notes of fresh tomato create a symphony of flavors that has stood the test of time.

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The beauty of a Cobb Salad lies in its thoughtful arrangement. The traditional presentation features neat rows of colorful ingredients atop crisp greens - a visual feast before the first bite. This recipe honors that tradition while offering the convenience of a meal that can be prepared in stages, making it perfect for busy weeknights or elegant entertaining.

Ingredients

• Protein: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 4 slices bacon
• Vegetables & Greens: 6 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., romaine, iceberg, arugula), 1 large avocado, diced, 2 medium tomatoes, diced, 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• Dairy & Eggs: 4 large eggs, 3 oz (85 g) blue cheese, crumbled
• Dressing: 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• Other: 1 tbsp olive oil, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the chicken

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice thinly.

Cook the bacon

While the chicken cooks, place the bacon in a skillet over medium heat and cook until crisp. Drain on paper towels and chop.

Make hard-boiled eggs

Place eggs in a saucepan, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 8–9 minutes. Cool under cold running water, peel, and quarter.

Assemble the salad

Arrange salad greens in a large serving bowl or divide among 4 bowls.

Arrange toppings

Neatly arrange grilled chicken, bacon, avocado, tomatoes, red onion (if using), blue cheese, and egg quarters in rows or sections over the greens.

Finish and serve

Drizzle with ranch dressing just before serving, or serve dressing on the side.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the perfect hard-boiled eggs, start them in cold water to prevent cracking. Once they reach a boil, set a timer immediately to avoid overcooked, grayish yolks. Ice water bathing after cooking makes peeling much easier. For the chicken, allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to keep the juices locked in, resulting in more tender meat.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This Cobb Salad can easily accommodate dietary preferences and seasonal availability. Substitute grilled turkey or shrimp for chicken if desired. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with roasted chickpeas or extra eggs. If blue cheese is too strong, try feta or goat cheese instead. For a lighter option, use turkey bacon and a reduced-fat ranch dressing, or make your own yogurt-based dressing.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this Cobb Salad as a refreshing yet satisfying main course for lunch or dinner. For a complete meal, pair with a crusty whole grain bread or light soup. This salad shines at brunch gatherings, casual dinner parties, or picnics when arranged on a large platter. Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or iced tea for the perfect beverage complement.

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The Cobb Salad is more than just a meal—it's a piece of American culinary heritage that has endured for nearly a century. Whether enjoyed as a light summer dinner or hearty lunch, this thoughtfully composed dish delivers satisfaction in every bite. With its perfect balance of proteins, vegetables and creamy dressing, it stands as proof that salads can be both nutritious and indulgent at once.

Recipe FAQs

→ What is the best way to grill the chicken?

Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes per side until fully cooked, then let rest before slicing thinly.

→ Can I substitute the bacon with another ingredient?

Yes, turkey bacon or grilled shrimp can be used as alternatives to add a different flavor while maintaining the protein aspect.

→ How should the eggs be prepared for this salad?

Boil the eggs for 8–9 minutes, cool them under running water, peel, and quarter before arranging on the greens.

→ What greens work best for this bowl?

A mix of romaine, iceberg, and arugula provides a crisp and fresh base that complements the rich toppings well.

→ Is it necessary to use ranch dressing?

Ranch dressing adds a creamy tang that balances the ingredients, but it can be served on the side or substituted with lighter dressings as preferred.