When it comes to salads, few are as iconic and beloved as the Cobb salad. Named after its creator, Bob Cobb, this classic salad has been a staple on menus for decades. And for good reason – the combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, creamy avocado, and tangy blue cheese is nothing short of perfection.
But why settle for just one version when you can have them all? In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious Cobb salad recipes that put a twist on the classic. From traditional takes with avocado and bacon to innovative variations featuring grilled chicken, chipotle ranch, and even vegan tempeh bacon, there’s something for everyone.
Traditional Cobb Salad with Avocado and Bacon
Classic Cobb Salad with Avocado and Bacon Recipe
This timeless salad combines crispy bacon, juicy avocado, and tangy blue cheese for a satisfying and flavorful meal. With its colorful mix of greens, vegetables, and proteins, this cobb salad is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 hard-boiled egg, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell pepper, cucumber, and blue cheese.
2. Top with crumbled bacon, diced avocado, and sliced egg.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing
This classic salad gets a boost from grilled chicken and creamy blue cheese dressing. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Blue Cheese Dressing (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, and chives in a large bowl.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad bowl.
5. Drizzle Blue Cheese Dressing over the top and toss to combine.
Blue Cheese Dressing:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southwest Cobb Salad with Chipotle Ranch
This flavorful salad combines the classic Cobb salad with a spicy kick from chipotle peppers and tangy ranch dressing, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup corn kernels
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chipotle Ranch Dressing (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chicken, black beans, corn, queso fresco, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chipotle peppers, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately with Chipotle Ranch Dressing on the side.
Chipotle Ranch Dressing:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a salad recipe!
Vegan Cobb Salad with Tempeh Bacon
This vegan take on the classic Cobb salad is a game-changer, featuring crispy tempeh bacon and a medley of fresh greens. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe combines flavors and textures in a satisfying and healthy way.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cooked tempeh, crumbled
– 1/4 cup tempeh bacon strips
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup vegan mayo
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Spread tempeh bacon strips on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, crumbled tempeh, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together vegan mayo and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Top with crispy tempeh bacon strips. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
BBQ Chicken Cobb Salad with Corn and Black Beans
A twist on the classic cobb salad, this recipe adds a sweet and tangy BBQ chicken component, crunchy corn, and creamy black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Brush BBQ sauce on grilled chicken during last minute of cooking.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, black beans, corn kernels, feta cheese, and cilantro.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and place on top of salad.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto Cobb Salad with Creamy Garlic Dressing
A classic salad gets a low-carb twist with this Keto Cobb Salad recipe. Crisp bacon, juicy chicken, and creamy avocado come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 4 slices of bacon, crispy and crumbled
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 tablespoons Creamy Garlic Dressing (recipe below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Garlic Dressing:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chicken, bacon, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with Creamy Garlic Dressing and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Asian-Inspired Cobb Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing
Asian-Inspired Cobb Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing
A refreshing twist on the classic Cobb salad, this Asian-inspired version combines the flavors of sesame and ginger with crispy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 1 avocado, diced
– Sesame Ginger Dressing (recipe below)
Sesame Ginger Dressing:
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, pickled ginger, and toasted sesame seeds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Sesame Ginger Dressing ingredients until smooth.
3. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.
4. Top with diced avocado.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Turkey Cobb Salad with Cranberries and Pecans
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of roasted turkey, crispy bacon, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans for a delightful twist on the classic Cobb salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 8 oz cooked turkey breast, diced
– 6 slices of bacon, crisped and crumbled
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, diced turkey, crisped bacon, and dried cranberries.
3. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top of the salad.
4. Crumble blue cheese (if using) and add on top.
5. Drizzle with Dijon mustard and olive oil.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Bacon and Egg Cobb Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
A classic salad gets a savory twist with the addition of crispy bacon, runny eggs, and a tangy honey mustard dressing. This satisfying salad is perfect for brunch or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 large eggs, hard-boiled and sliced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp honey mustard dressing (see below for recipe)
Honey Mustard Dressing:
– 2 tbsp dijon mustard
– 1 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, crumbled bacon, sliced eggs, and halved cherry tomatoes.
2. Sprinkle blue cheese on top (if using).
3. Drizzle honey mustard dressing over the salad.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mediterranean Cobb Salad with Feta and Olives
A refreshing twist on the classic cobb salad, this Mediterranean-inspired version adds a tangy kick from crumbled feta cheese and briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens.
2. Top with crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Cobb Salad!
Buffalo Chicken Cobb Salad with Ranch Dressing
This spicy and savory salad combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with the classic goodness of a cobb salad, all tied together with a creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tsp hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce (hot sauce and butter), and blue cheese crumbles.
3. Toss mixed greens with diced red bell pepper and chopped cilantro.
4. Assemble the salad by placing the greens mixture on a plate, topping with the buffalo chicken mixture, and drizzling with ranch dressing.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seafood Cobb Salad with Shrimp and Crab
A classic salad gets a seafood twist with succulent shrimp and crab, mixed greens, and tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked shrimp, chilled
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat, flaked
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Add cooked shrimp and crab meat on top of the greens mixture.
3. Sprinkle blue cheese and parsley over the seafood.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
5. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Greek Cobb Salad with Tzatziki Dressing
Greek Cobb Salad with Tzatziki Dressing: A refreshing twist on the classic Cobb salad, this recipe combines crispy feta cheese, juicy tomatoes, and savory lamb with a creamy Tzatziki dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cooked lamb, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– Tzatziki dressing (see below)
Tzatziki Dressing:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, lamb, feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and olives.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Tzatziki dressing ingredients until smooth.
3. Pour the Tzatziki dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Apple Walnut Cobb Salad with Maple Vinaigrette
This crisp fall salad combines the sweetness of apples and walnuts with the savory tanginess of maple vinaigrette, perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups mixed greens
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup maple vinaigrette (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Maple Vinaigrette:
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 6 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced apple, and chopped walnuts.
2. If using blue cheese, crumble it over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle maple vinaigrette over the salad, tossing to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep) + 5 minutes (assembling)
Enjoy your delicious Apple Walnut Cobb Salad with Maple Vinaigrette!
Spicy Cobb Salad with Jalapeños and Pepper Jack Cheese
This bold twist on the classic Cobb salad adds a spicy kick from jalapeños and a creamy richness from pepper jack cheese. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled pepper jack cheese
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chicken, pepper jack cheese, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeño slices.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Top with crumbled blue cheese (if using).
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Harvest Cobb Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Harvest Cobb Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes: A delicious blend of flavors and textures, this recipe combines the warmth of roasted sweet potatoes with the crunch of a classic cobb salad.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender, flipping halfway through.
4. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, blue cheese (if using), walnuts, and cilantro.
5. Add the roasted sweet potatoes to the salad and toss gently.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
California Cobb Salad with Avocado and Sprouts
California Cobb Salad with Avocado and Sprouts
A fresh twist on the classic Cobb salad, this recipe adds creamy avocado and nutritious sprouts to create a healthy and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1/4 cup sprouts (alfalfa or broccoli)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced avocado, cooked chicken breast, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped nuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Top with sprouts and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Chicken Cobb Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Pesto Chicken Cobb Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: A flavorful twist on the classic cobb salad, this recipe combines juicy chicken, creamy pesto, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 hard-boiled egg, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and pesto.
3. Place chicken breast in a baking dish and brush with the pesto mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast croutons according to package instructions.
6. Assemble salad by layering lettuce, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, sliced egg, and warm chicken breast.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your salad game! This article brings you 18 classic Cobb salad recipes, each with its own twist and flavor profile. From traditional recipes like the original Cobb Salad with Avocado and Bacon, to innovative variations like Vegan Cobb Salad with Tempeh Bacon and Keto Cobb Salad with Creamy Garlic Dressing, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy, savory, or sweet, these recipes will guide you through the art of creating a delicious and satisfying salad that will become your new favorite dish.
