Cobb Salad Recipe

Prepare lettuce

Wash the romaine lettuce thoroughly. Pat dry with paper towels or use a salad spinner. Chop or tear into bite-sized pieces to yield about 6 cups and transfer to a large shallow serving bowl or platter.

Prepare vegetables

Core and seed the tomatoes, then dice into 1/2-inch pieces. Peel (if desired) and slice the cucumber into 1/4-inch rounds or half-moons. Arrange the tomatoes and cucumber in separate rows or sections on top of the lettuce so the salad has distinct components.

Cook bacon

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a skillet over medium heat. For oven method: arrange bacon slices on a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil and bake 12–16 minutes until crisp. For skillet: cook 3–4 minutes per side until crisp. Transfer cooked bacon to paper towels to drain, then chop into bite-sized pieces.

Cook eggs

Place 3 eggs in a small saucepan and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Bring to a gentle boil, then immediately remove from heat and cover the pan. Let sit 10–12 minutes for firm hard-boiled yolks. Transfer eggs to an ice bath for 5 minutes, then peel and slice each egg into 6 wedges or thin rounds.

Assemble proteins

Slice or dice the cooked ham into 1/2-inch pieces. Arrange the chopped bacon, diced ham, egg slices, and shredded cheddar in separate rows or clusters on the bed of lettuce and vegetables so the salad displays classic Cobb presentation.

Make quick vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon honey until emulsified. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to taste (from the total salt/pepper listed). Taste and adjust acidity or sweetness as desired. (If you prefer a prepared dressing—ranch, blue cheese, or store-bought vinaigrette—omit this step and reserve 1/2 cup of that dressing.)

Season and serve

Lightly drizzle dressing over the arranged salad (or pass dressing on the side) — about 3–4 tablespoons for the whole salad depending on preference. Sprinkle remaining salt and pepper evenly if needed. Toss gently if you want a mixed Cobb, or leave arranged and let diners portion and toss on their plates. Serve immediately.