Cobb Salad with Ranch Dressing

Cobb Salad with Ranch Dressing is a stunning and satisfying classic American entrée salad known for its colorful layers, hearty ingredients, and bold flavors. It originated in the 1930s at the famous Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood and has remained a beloved dish ever since.

Cobb salad isn’t just a bowl of greens—it’s a balanced blend of textures and flavors: crisp lettuce, creamy avocado, smoky bacon, juicy chicken, tangy cheese, perfectly boiled eggs, and ripe tomatoes.

What makes this dish stand out is how filling and nutritious it is while still feeling fresh and light. Topped with a creamy ranch dressing, every forkful offers a delightful combination of crunch, richness, and tang.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it feels like a complete meal packed into one beautiful bowl. It’s nutritious, balanced, and flavorful without being complicated.

Every ingredient contributes something unique, and you can easily customize it to suit your mood or dietary preferences. It’s great for lunch meal prep, dinner salads, or even gatherings where a hearty salad is needed.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This salad is a must-try because it proves salads don’t have to be boring. The variety of textures, colors, and ingredients makes it exciting to eat.

It’s also versatile—you can tweak components based on availability, dietary needs, or personal preference. Plus, it’s packed with protein and healthy fats, keeping you full and energized.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 20–25 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 550–700 calories per serving (depending on dressing amount)
Course: Main Course or Lunch
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients:

• 6 cups chopped Romaine lettuce (or mixed greens)
• 2 cooked chicken breasts (grilled, roasted, or rotisserie), diced
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and halved or sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced or cubed
• 6 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 cup cucumber slices (optional)
• ½ cup crumbled blue cheese or feta
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced

For the Ranch Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ⅓ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• ¼ cup buttermilk (adjust for thickness)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried dill
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon dried chives
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice or white vinegar

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook the Bacon and Eggs
   Fry bacon until crisp, then crumble. Hard-boil eggs, cool, peel, and slice.
2. Prepare the Chicken
   Use pre-cooked chicken or cook fresh chicken seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Cube or shred.
3. Chop the Vegetables
   Chop lettuce, slice tomatoes, dice avocado, and slice onion and cucumber.
4. Make the Ranch Dressing
   Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, and seasonings until creamy. Adjust thickness with more buttermilk if desired.
5. Assemble the Salad
   Place a bed of lettuce in a large salad bowl or platter. Arrange toppings in rows: chicken, eggs, bacon, tomatoes, avocado, onions, and cheese for a classic Cobb presentation.
6. Dress and Serve
   Drizzle with ranch dressing just before serving.

How to Serve

Serve immediately after dressing to maintain freshness and texture. Pair with crusty bread, iced tea, or lemon water for a complete meal. For meal prep, store dressing separately.

Recipe Tips

• Use chilled, crisp lettuce to prevent sogginess.
• Add avocado at the last moment to prevent browning.
• Prepare components ahead, then assemble when ready to eat.
• Use high-quality ranch dressing if not making homemade.

Variations

• Healthy/Low-Calorie: Use Greek yogurt ranch and omit bacon.
• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with crispy chickpeas or tofu.
• Keto-Friendly: Add extra cheese and avocado; reduce tomatoes.
• Spicy Version: Add buffalo chicken or jalapeño ranch dressing.
• Mediterranean Style: Swap ranch for tzatziki and add olives.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Refrigeration: Store undressed salad in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
• Do Not Freeze: Fresh vegetables, eggs, and avocado do not freeze well. Dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5–7 days.

Special Equipment Needed

• Salad spinner
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl for dressing

FAQ

Q1: Can I use store-bought ranch dressing?
Yes, but homemade dressing tastes fresher and richer.

Q2: Can I make this ahead?
Yes—store ingredients separately and assemble right before serving.

Q3: Can I substitute the cheese?
Absolutely—cheddar, Monterey Jack, or feta all work well.

Q4: What chicken works best?
Grilled or roasted chicken adds great flavor, but rotisserie is quick and convenient.

Conclusion

Cobb Salad with Ranch Dressing is a satisfying and flavor-packed recipe that proves salads can be hearty, nourishing, and exciting. With its signature layers, creamy dressing, and balance of textures, it offers a meal that feels both refreshing and filling.

Whether you’re preparing it for meal prep, lunch, dinner, or a gathering, this salad remains a timeless and delicious classic that everyone can enjoy.