Little Gem Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese & Herb Dressing Magic

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

When the craving for a fresh, satisfying meal hits, there s nothing quite like the crunch of a Little Gem Wedge Salad paired with a decadent Blue Cheese & Herb Dressing. I first discovered this delightful combination at a cozy little bistro, where the vibrant flavors danced on my palate. The moment those crisp lettuce wedges met the creamy, tangy dressing, I knew I had to recreate it at home.

Imagine serving this salad at your next gathering; it effortlessly transforms a simple green dish into a crowd-pleaser. Each bite bursts with flavor from the rich blue cheese, herbaceous notes, and smoky bacon, making it a perfect companion to grilled meats or even as a standout appetizer on its own. Plus, it s quick to whip up and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste! Join me on this culinary journey as we dive into the invigorating world of this Little Gem Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese & Herb Dressing, an effortless yet impressive addition to any meal.

Why is Little Gem Wedge Salad so special?

Simplicity at Its Best: This delightful salad combines fresh ingredients that are easy to prep, making it perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike.
Tangy, Creamy Bliss: The rich blue cheese and Greek yogurt create a luscious dressing that tantalizes your taste buds with every bite.
Perfect Protein Pairing: Smoky bacon crumbles add a mouthwatering crunch, elevating this salad from ordinary to extraordinary.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish or a main course this salad complements grilled meats seamlessly!
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip this up in minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: It s a guaranteed hit at parties, transforming your meal into an impressive feast. For even more flavorful inspiration, check out my article on how to make homemade dressings.

Little Gem Wedge Salad Ingredients

Get ready to delight your taste buds!

For the Dressing

• Blue cheese this crumbled delight provides that signature creamy tang in your dressing.
• Whole-milk plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a hint of tanginess while keeping it healthier.
• Extra-virgin olive oil a luxurious touch that enriches the dressing with richness.
• White-wine vinegar gives a subtle acidity that balances the flavors beautifully.
• Dijon mustard adds a zesty kick to the dressing that perfectly complements blue cheese.
• Flat-leaf parsley a freshness that rounds out the dressing and adds a vibrant color.
• Fresh oregano enhances the herbaceous profile of the dressing for a Mediterranean twist.
• Garlic a hint of this aromatic ingredient transforms the dressing into a flavor powerhouse.
• Kosher salt brings out the natural flavors, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.
• Ground pepper a dash adds warmth and complexity to the dressing.

For the Salad

• Little Gem lettuce the star of the show, these crisp leaves create delightful, crunchy wedges.
• Crumbled blue cheese additional cheese on top takes the flavor to another level in your Little Gem Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese & Herb Dressing.
• Cooked bacon crumbled, smoky bits that add texture and a savory punch.
• Scallions fresh, green slices give a pop of color and mild onion flavor to the dish.

How to Make Little Gem Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese & Herb Dressing

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine ¾ cup of crumbled blue cheese, cup of whole-milk Greek yogurt, ¼ cup of extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of white-wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon each of chopped flat-leaf parsley and fresh oregano, 1 clove of minced garlic, ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon of ground pepper. Blend until the mixture is almost smooth, creating a luscious dressing.

2. Cut the Lettuce: Take 6 heads of Little Gem lettuce and cut each head in half lengthwise. Arrange the halved lettuce on a large salad plate to showcase their crisp, vibrant leaves.

3. Assemble the Salad: Spoon 2 tablespoons of the creamy dressing over each lettuce wedge. Don t hold back the dressing should generously coat each piece!

4. Add Toppings: Finish your Little Gem Wedge Salad by sprinkling on additional crumbled blue cheese, crispy cooked bacon, and sliced scallions. This adds texture and bursts of flavor to your delightful creation.

5. Serve & Enjoy: Serve immediately, with extra dressing on the side for those who want an even creamier experience. Enjoy each crunchy, flavorful bite!

Optional: For a pop of color, garnish with extra herbs or edible flowers.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Little Gem Wedge Salad Variations

Customize your Little Gem Wedge Salad with these delicious variations, ensuring every bite is uniquely yours!

• Dairy-Free: Swap the blue cheese and Greek yogurt for cashew cheese and a nut-based yogurt alternative for a luscious vegan dressing.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a delightful heat that complements the creamy flavors.
• Herb Explosion: Mix in fresh chives and dill with your parsley and oregano, creating a vibrant, herby twist that elevates the dressing.
• Crunchy Add-Ins: Toss in some toasted nuts or seeds, like walnuts or sunflower seeds, for a satisfying crunch that adds depth to your salad.
• Roasted Veggies: Add roasted bell peppers or cherry tomatoes atop the lettuce for a sweet, caramelized contrast to the richness of the dressing.
• Bacon Alternatives: Try crispy pancetta or turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a taste variation that still provides that satisfying crunch.
• Savory Umami: Incorporate a few drops of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce in the dressing for a savory twist that deepens the overall flavor.
• Fruit Fusion: Add slices of ripe pear or apple for a sweet burst amongst the savory elements; it s a refreshing take on the classic!

What to Serve with Little Gem Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese & Herb Dressing?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that ll complement this flavorful salad beautifully.

• Grilled Steak: The smoky char of a perfectly grilled steak complements the creamy dressing and rich blue cheese beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread offers a satisfying texture contrast and is perfect for scooping up leftover dressing.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds a touch of sweetness and earthy depth to your meal, balancing the tangy salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: Light and nutty, quinoa pilaf provides an excellent base for a well-rounded meal while staying wholesome and filling.
• Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing and zesty, this bubbly drink cleanses the palate and enhances the vibrant flavors of your salad.
• Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich, velvety chocolate mousse; it s a perfect contrast to the salad s savoriness.

These pairings harmonize with your Little Gem Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese & Herb Dressing, creating a delightful culinary experience.

How to Store and Freeze Little Gem Wedge Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days, ensuring the dressing is kept separate to maintain the crispness of the lettuce.

Dressing: The Blue Cheese & Herb Dressing can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Stir well before using, as ingredients may separate.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for the assembled salad since lettuce doesn t hold up well. However, you can freeze the dressing for up to 3 months for future salads.

Reheating: For best results, enjoy the salad cold. If you made extra bacon, reheat it in a pan until crispy if you prefer it warm again!

Tips for the Best Little Gem Wedge Salad

• Freshness is Key: Use the freshest Little Gem lettuce you can find for the best crunch and flavor. Look for vibrant, crisp leaves to elevate your salad.
• Balancing Flavors: Taste your dressing before serving; adjust salt and vinegar to achieve your desired tangy balance in your Little Gem Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese & Herb Dressing.
• Crumbled Cheese Tip: For an added burst of flavor, let the crumbled blue cheese come to room temperature before adding it to your salad. This enhances its creaminess.
• Bacon Crunch: Make sure your bacon is crispy for the best texture contrast. Soft bacon can muddy the fresh, crunchy experience of the salad.
• Herb Swaps: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like chives or dill if you want to change up the flavor profile of the dressing or garnish.
• Double Batch Dressing: Consider making extra dressing ahead of time; it keeps well in the refrigerator and can be used on other salads or as a dip!

Make Ahead Options

These Little Gem Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese & Herb Dressing components are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the blue cheese dressing up to 3 days in advance; simply blend all the dressing ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture. The lettuce can also be washed, cut, and wrapped in a damp paper towel, then placed in a plastic bag, which keeps it fresh for up to 24 hours. When you re ready to serve, just plate the lettuce, drizzle on the pre-made dressing, and finish with crumbled blue cheese, bacon, and scallions for a delicious, stress-free meal that s just as delightful as when it was freshly made!

Little Gem Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese & Herb Dressing Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best Little Gem lettuce?
Absolutely! Look for Little Gem lettuce with vibrant, crisp leaves free from any dark spots or wilting. The heads should feel firm and have a fresh green color.

How long can I store the leftover salad?
You can store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain the lettuce s crunchiness, keep the dressing separate until you re ready to eat.

Can I freeze the Blue Cheese & Herb Dressing?
Yes, you can! To freeze, transfer the dressing into an airtight container, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and stir well before serving.

What if my dressing is too thick?
No worries! If your dressing turns out thicker than desired, you can easily adjust it by blending in a tablespoon or two of water or extra olive oil until it reaches your preferred consistency. Start with a small amount and blend, adding more if necessary.

Is this salad suitable for those with dairy allergies?
Since blue cheese and Greek yogurt contain dairy, this salad may not be suitable for individuals with dairy allergies. For a dairy-free alternative, you could use cashew cream or a tahini-based dressing to get that creamy texture without the dairy.

What can I serve with this salad?
The Little Gem Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese & Herb Dressing pairs wonderfully with grilled meats such as steak or chicken. It also makes an impressive appetizer when served at parties, alongside crispy bread or as part of a tapas-style spread!