Iceberg lettuce salad is a timeless classic, loved for its crisp texture and refreshing bite. While many salads rely on bold greens or elaborate toppings, iceberg keeps things simple. Its cool crunch makes it the perfect base for a light meal or an effortless side dish that works with almost anything you cook. Whether you are preparing a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, this salad brings brightness and freshness to the table with very little effort.
What makes iceberg lettuce special is its structure. The tightly packed leaves stay firm even when coated in dressing, which gives every bite a pleasant snap. Begin by cutting the head into wedges or chopping it into bite sized pieces. Both options work well, so choose the style that fits the meal you are serving. Wedges feel more elegant and hold toppings beautifully, while chopped pieces make a casual bowl that is quick to toss and share.
Iceberg lettuce pairs well with a variety of flavors, which means you can take this salad in many directions. A classic version often includes cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, red onions, and crunchy homemade croutons. These simple additions create a balance of texture and color without overshadowing the natural freshness of the lettuce. You can also bring in creamy elements like avocado or feta for richness. If you want something more vibrant, add radishes, fresh herbs, or sweet corn.
Choosing the right dressing can transform the entire salad. A creamy dressing like ranch or blue cheese creates a cool and satisfying contrast with the crisp lettuce. For something lighter, vinaigrettes made with lemon, olive oil, and a touch of Dijon mustard work beautifully. Iceberg is mild, which makes it the ideal canvas for bold or subtle dressings. Toss lightly to coat the leaves without making them soggy.
Iceberg lettuce salad is also incredibly versatile at the table. Serve it next to grilled chicken, pasta dishes, roasted vegetables, or even sandwiches. It provides a refreshing counterbalance to richer foods, which is why it shows up so often at barbecues and family dinners. It is easy to customize and quick to prepare.
In the end, this salad is all about simplicity. With crisp lettuce, fresh vegetables, and the right dressing, you can create a dish that feels clean, cool, and satisfying. It is proof that even the simplest ingredients can shine when treated with care.
Ingredients
- 1 head iceberg lettuce chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup your choice of dressing
Instructions
- Wash and chop the iceberg lettuce, and place it in a large salad bowl.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion to the bowl.
- Toss the salad with your choice of dressing just before serving.
Nutrition
Honestly, a bit boring. I was expecting something more flavorful. Maybe add nuts or something?
Not a fan of iceberg lettuce! I switched it for spinach and it was way better. Try it! 🥗
This salad is so refreshing! Perfect for hot days. I added some feta cheese and it was amazing! 😊
Too many ingredients! Why not just use lettuce and dressing? Less is more, folks!
The red onion was WAY too strong for me. Maybe less next time? 🤢
I mean, it’s a salad, right? How can you go wrong? 🤷♂️ Just toss whatever you have.
Yeah, but some dressings can be super off-putting! Like, who puts ranch on a salad? 🤢
Salads can get pretty boring tho. You gotta spice it up with some nuts or cheese, ya know?
Yum! I added some avocado too, and it was delicious! Definitely making this again.
I never thought of avocado! That’s a great idea; I bet it adds creaminess.
I dunno, avocado in a salad? Seems weird to me. But whatever floats your boat.
This is basically just a bowl of raw veg. Where’s the chicken? 😕
It’s a salad, not a main dish! You can add chicken if you want. 🥗