Ruth’s Chris-inspired Chopped Salad

Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad: A Flavorful Delight for Everyone

Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad is the perfect dish to elevate your meal game, combining fresh ingredients, rich flavors, and delightful textures in every bite. This vibrant salad is not just a side; it can stand alone as a main course or be an impressive addition to any gathering.

Why Make This Recipe

This chopped salad is a wonderful way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your diet while enjoying something delicious. With the use of fresh ingredients like crispy bacon, tangy blue cheese, and a zesty lemon-basil dressing, this salad pleases the palate and will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s an excellent option for meal prep, making it easier to eat healthy throughout the week.

How to Make Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad

Making this renowned Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad at home is simple and requires little culinary expertise. With a mix of crunchy vegetables, savory additions, and a delightful dressing, you can easily whip up this dish and impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 4 cups finely chopped iceberg lettuce
• 1 cup chopped baby spinach
• 1 cup chopped radicchio
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup sliced green olives
• 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
• 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
• 4 strips crispy bacon, crumbled
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta
• 60 ml olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Extra crumbled blue cheese, for garnish

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and chopped basil. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Continue whisking until the dressing is fully emulsified and smooth. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until crisp and golden. Once cooked, remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain excess fat. Allow it to cool, then crumble into small pieces.

3. For the hard-boiled eggs, place the eggs in a saucepan, cover them with cold water, and bring to a gentle boil. Let them simmer for 9–10 minutes. Afterward, cool the eggs under cold running water, peel, and chop coarsely.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped iceberg lettuce, baby spinach, and radicchio. Add the diced red onion, celery, chopped mushrooms, sliced green olives, and halved cherry tomatoes. Toss gently with tongs until all ingredients are evenly mixed.

5. Add the crumbled blue cheese or feta, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and crumbled bacon to the salad. Drizzle in the lemon-basil dressing, starting with half and adjusting to your taste. Toss the salad gently until everything is lightly coated, being careful not to overdress it to preserve the texture.

6. Spoon the chopped salad into a round mold or individual bowls and refrigerate for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavors and crispness. Just before serving, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and extra crumbled blue cheese.

Pro Tips for Success with Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad

• Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the ingredients plays a significant role in flavor. Use fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese for the best results.

• Bacon Alternatives: If you prefer a healthier version, consider using turkey bacon or smoked tempeh, which gives a delightful smokiness without the pork.

• Make-ahead Dressing: Prepare the dressing in advance and refrigerate it to let the flavors develop further. Just remember to whisk it again before using.

• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite ingredients; diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even avocado can make this salad your own.

• Seasonal Variations: Adjust the salad ingredients according to the seasons. Incorporating seasonal veggies not only keeps it fresh but also adds variety.

• Serving Temperature: Chilling the salad before serving enhances the crunchy texture and flavor, making it more refreshing.

Flavor Variations for Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad

• Mediterranean Twist: Add some chopped cucumbers, bell peppers, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Mediterranean flair. Using feta instead of blue cheese complements this variation wonderfully.

• Southwestern Style: Incorporate black beans, corn, and diced avocado for a southwest-inspired version. A hint of lime juice can add a zesty kick.

• Asian Infusion: Swap the dressing for a ginger-sesame vinaigrette and include edamame, crispy wonton strips, and sliced radishes for an Asian-inspired salad.

• Fruity Addition: Add fruits like sliced strawberries or mandarin oranges to bring a unique sweetness to the salad.

Serving Suggestions for Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad

Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Here are some suggestions:

• Steak or Grilled Chicken: The salad complements grilled meats very well, enhancing their flavors and providing a refreshing crunch.

• Seafood Dishes: Serve alongside baked salmon or shrimp tacos for a light and healthy meal.

• Vegetarian Options: This salad makes a great companion to hearty vegetable dishes or grain bowls, adding contrast to their textures.

It also works perfectly as a standalone lunch, packed with nutrients that keep you full and energized throughout the day.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad

To maintain the freshness and crunch of your Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad, remember the following storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Keep any leftovers stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. The dressing can be stored separately to ensure the salad doesn’t become soggy.

• Freezing: Traditionally, salads aren’t suitable for freezing due to the high water content in the vegetables. If you want to prepare ahead of time, consider preparing all the ingredients except the greens and dressing, and then combine them just before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|——————-|——————|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 21g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 450mg |

FAQ About Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily customize this salad by omitting the bacon and opting for plant-based cheese alternatives, such as cashew cheese or additional feta. A sprinkle of toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds can also add extra crunch.

How can I make this salad gluten-free?

This Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad is naturally gluten-free, given the fresh ingredients used. Just make sure to check that any dressing components like mustard or vinegar haven’t come into contact with gluten.

What other dressings can I use?

If you’re looking for alternatives to the lemon-basil dressing, consider using a balsamic vinaigrette, ranch dressing, or a simple olive oil and vinegar mix. Just remember to adjust seasoning as needed based on your chosen dressing.

How do I ensure my salad stays crisp?

To maintain the crunchiness of your salad, store the ingredients separately in airtight containers, especially the greens and dressing, until ready to serve. This prevents them from wilting and losing their fresh texture.

Can I add more protein?

Definitely! Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can enhance the protein content of the salad. Just mix in your preferred protein source when serving for an extra filling dish.

Final Thoughts

Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad is an unforgettable dish that combines the freshness of veggies, rich flavors, and a delightful dressing, appealing to a wide range of tastes. Whether you’re preparing a casual lunch, a family dinner, or hosting guests, this salad is sure to impress. Its versatility makes it easy to adapt to personal preferences or dietary needs, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy this delicious treat. Enjoy creating this chopped salad, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors to make it your own!

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