As I stood in my kitchen, shuttering at the thought of another takeout night, inspiration struck: what if I could recreate that crave-worthy salad from my favorite steakhouse? Enter the Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad Recipe, a vibrant medley of crunchy greens, creamy blue cheese, and crispy bacon that brings a taste of gourmet dining right to my home. Not only is this salad a feast for the eyes, but it’s also customizable for any palate—perfect for meat lovers and veggie enthusiasts alike. Whipping up this healthy delight is a breeze, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or stylish gatherings. Are you ready to elevate your salad game and savor every bite?
Why is Ruth’s Chris Salad a Must-Try?
Freshness in every bite: This salad captures the essence of gourmet dining with its vibrant ingredients and tangy dressing.
Customizable to your taste: Whether you prefer feta over blue cheese or want to add grilled chicken, this dish adapts to every craving!
Time-saving delight: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can whip it up quickly while impressing your family or guests.
Crowd-pleaser status: Ideal for potlucks or dinner parties, it combines familiar flavors that everyone will love! Give it a try alongside my favorite Carrot Chickpea Salad for a colorful feast.
Health-conscious choice: Packed with nutrients, this salad belongs in your regular meal rotation while keeping indulgence in check.
Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad Ingredients
Get ready to dive into a refreshing and delightful mix of flavors with this Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad recipe!
For the Salad
- Iceberg Lettuce – Crunchy base that adds texture; can substitute with romaine for a different crunch.
- Baby Spinach – Adds vibrant color and packed with nutrients; no notable substitutions needed.
- Radicchio – Provides a slightly bitter flavor for balance; can replace with endive for similar taste.
- Red Onions – Sweetness and color enhancer; soak in cold water to reduce sharpness if desired.
- Celery – Offers crunch and freshness; cucumber can serve as a lighter alternative.
- Green Olives – Introduces a salty tang; Kalamata olives are a tasty swap.
- Mushrooms – Brings earthiness; use any fresh mushrooms and consider grilling for extra flavor.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Adds juiciness and a hint of acidity; grape tomatoes can be used as an alternative.
- Blue Cheese – Rich and creamy flavor; substitute with feta or goat cheese for a lighter option.
- Bacon – Adds savory goodness and crunch; turkey bacon is a healthier alternative.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs – Contributes protein and richness; omit for a vegan version or substitute with tofu.
For the Dressing
- Olive Oil – Base for dressing, adding healthy fats; avocado oil is a great substitute.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavor profile; lime juice works as an excellent alternative.
- Red Wine Vinegar – Provides necessary acidity; use apple cider vinegar for a different flavor twist.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds depth to the dressing; any mustard works—adjust to your taste!
- Honey – Sweetness to balance acidity; maple syrup is a great vegan substitute.
- Fresh Basil – Enhances aroma and freshness; other fresh herbs like parsley can work in a pinch.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste; adjust according to dietary preferences.
For Garnish
- Fresh Basil Leaves – Adds a touch of elegance; microgreens can offer a unique twist.
- Extra Crumbled Blue Cheese – Enhances the presentation; optional based on personal preference.
This Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad recipe is a celebration of flavors and textures that are simply irresistible!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup of olive oil, ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Add freshly chopped basil, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the dressing to sit for about 10 minutes so the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 2: Cook Bacon and Eggs
In a skillet over medium heat, fry the bacon until it is crispy, about 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces. Meanwhile, boil water in a saucepan, gently adding eggs and cooking for 9-10 minutes. Once cooked, cool under cold water, peel, and chop the hard-boiled eggs into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine 4 cups of chopped iceberg lettuce, 2 cups of baby spinach, 1 cup of chopped radicchio, ½ cup of diced red onions, 1 cup of chopped celery, 1 cup of sliced mushrooms, ½ cup of sliced green olives, and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Toss gently to mix the colorful greens and veggies thoroughly.
Step 4: Add Proteins & Cheese
To the salad mixture, fold in ½ cup of crumbled blue cheese, the chopped hard-boiled eggs, and the crispy bacon. Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the salad and use tongs to toss everything together, ensuring all ingredients are well-coated without making the greens soggy.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for about 10 minutes to let the flavors enhance. This step also helps in keeping the salad crisp. Once chilled, serve in individual bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra crumbled blue cheese, if you desire an indulgent touch.
What to Serve with Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad
Imagine a delightful spread where each dish complements the vibrant flavors of your chopped salad, turning meals into memorable experiences.
- Grilled Steak: Juicy, seasoned steak perfectly pairs with the salad’s crunch and creaminess, elevating any occasion to a gourmet feast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful, caramelized veggies add a sweet, earthy contrast, enhancing the freshness found in every bite of the salad.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery slices of garlic bread are a warm and inviting way to complete your meal—perfect for soaking up leftover dressing!
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado adds richness and a luxurious touch, enhancing the salad while also offering a healthy fat boost to keep you satisfied.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc mirrors the salad’s bright flavors, providing a refreshing sip for any gathering.
- Fruit Salad: A light, chunky fruit salad brings a sweet, juicy element to your plate, complementing the savory salad with a refreshing twist.
- Stuffed Peppers: Savory stuffed peppers deliver warmth and hearty substance, making for a fulfilling companion to your fresh salad.
- Lemon Sorbet: Cleanse your palate with a tangy lemon sorbet—a delightful way to wrap up a meal centered around fresh and vibrant ingredients.
How to Store and Freeze Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad
Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, keep dressing separate until ready to serve, which helps prevent sogginess.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the high moisture content in ingredients like lettuce and tomatoes, which can lose texture when thawed.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the salad components and dressing in advance, keeping them separated, then combine right before serving to enjoy the freshest flavors.
Reheating: If you’ve added proteins, like grilled chicken or shrimp, you can reheat those separately before mixing them into the salad. However, do not reheat the salad itself.
Make Ahead Options
These Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad ingredients are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet experience with less hassle! You can chop the vegetables and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dressing can also be prepared in advance and kept in a separate container for up to 24 hours; this keeps the salad fresh and crisp. To maintain quality, refrigerate the salad components separately from the dressing until just before serving. When ready to enjoy, simply combine the prepped veggies with the dressing, toss, and serve. You’ll have a vibrant, delicious salad ready in minutes!
Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your salad experience with these delightful twists!
-
Vegan Delight: Omit the bacon and eggs, substituting tofu or chickpeas for protein without compromising texture.
For a fulfilling vegan option, use crispy roasted chickpeas for added crunch. They offer a savory punch, keeping in mind the fresh flavors. -
Dairy-Free Swap: Replace blue cheese with creamy avocado or a nut-based cheese for a similar richness without the dairy.
This change not only adapts to dairy-free diets but also adds a silky texture that elevates every bite! -
Extra Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak pieces to make this salad a heartier main dish.
It’s a wonderful way to transform a refreshing salad into a filling meal that satisfies even the hungriest of appetites. -
Crunchy Cousin: Swap out iceberg lettuce for a mix of spring mix or arugula for a more peppery flavor; consider adding nuts for that extra crunch!
The variety in greens will tantalize your taste buds while providing an extra dose of nutrients. -
Summer Vibes: Dice in some juicy peaches or mangoes for a sweet and refreshing twist, perfect for summer gatherings.
This fruity addition brightens up the salad and pairs beautifully with the tangy dressing. -
Herb-Infused Twist: Experiment with other fresh herbs like cilantro or mint instead of basil for a completely new flavor profile.
They add a burst of freshness that can change the whole dynamic of the salad! -
Spice it Up: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to bring some heat to your salad.
This spicy kick gives a delightful contrast to the creamy textures and cool greens. -
Nutty Addition: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans to create a delightful crunch with rich flavors.
This not only enhances the salad’s texture but also provides healthy fats and protein, making it even more satisfying.
For those looking for more tasty salad inspirations, pair this with my delightful Apple Broccoli Salad or a fun twist like Halloween Pasta Salad to create a colorful meal spread!
Helpful Tricks for Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad
- Ingredient Prep: Chop vegetables finely for improved taste and texture integration—this enhances each bite of the Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad!
- Keep It Cool: Always chill the salad before serving to elevate freshness and flavor. Nobody likes a wilted salad!
- Dressing Timing: Store the dressing separately until just before serving. This keeps your salad crisp and prevents sogginess.
- Flavor Balance: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad; adjust honey or mustard based on your preference for sweetness or tang.
- Customize Liberally: Feel free to swap ingredients to suit your taste buds—experimenting with different cheeses or adding proteins makes this salad versatile!
Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of lettuce should I use for Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad?
Absolutely! The recipe calls for iceberg lettuce, which provides that satisfying crunch. If you’re looking for a change, romaine lettuce is a fresh alternative that maintains texture.
How should I store leftover salad?
To keep your Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, as this prevents the greens from getting soggy!
Can I freeze Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad?
Not really! Freezing is not recommended due to the high moisture content in ingredients like lettuce and tomatoes. When thawed, they can become limp and less pleasant. Instead, consider preparing the components in advance and assembling them just before serving.
What can I do if my salad dressing is too tangy?
If your dressing turns out too tangy for your liking, consider adding a touch more honey or adjusting the Dijon mustard to balance out the flavors. Start with small increments, whisk together, and taste until it’s just right.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Very! To create a vegan version, simply omit the bacon and hard-boiled eggs while swapping blue cheese with a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You could also use tofu for a protein boost!
How long can I make the salad components ahead of time?
You can prepare all salad ingredients and the dressing ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge for about 2 days. Be sure to combine everything right before serving to enjoy the brightest flavors and textures.
Ruth's Chris Chopped Salad Recipe: Freshness You Can Taste
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey. Add freshly chopped basil, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the dressing to sit for about 10 minutes.
- In a skillet over medium heat, fry the bacon until crispy, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces. Meanwhile, boil water in a saucepan, gently adding eggs and cooking for 9-10 minutes. Once cooked, cool under cold water, peel, and chop the hard-boiled eggs into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine chopped iceberg lettuce, baby spinach, chopped radicchio, diced red onions, chopped celery, sliced mushrooms, sliced green olives, and halved cherry tomatoes in a large mixing bowl. Toss gently to mix.
- Fold in crumbled blue cheese, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and crispy bacon. Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the salad and toss everything together using tongs.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for about 10 minutes. Serve in individual bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra crumbled blue cheese if desired.
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