#623 Zcobb Salad Recipe

Prepare proteins

If not already cooked, pan-sear or bake a 8 oz Amish chicken breast seasoned lightly with salt and pepper until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly. Cook 4 slices of applewood-smoked bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, drain on paper towels and chop into bite-size pieces.

Hard-boil egg

Place one large egg in a small pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Bring to a boil, then cover, remove from heat and let sit 9 minutes. Transfer to an ice bath for 5 minutes, peel and cut in half or quarter. Reserve for topping.

Prepare produce

Wash and thoroughly dry 6 cups of mixed salad greens. Peel and shred 1/2 cup carrots (or use pre-shredded). Thinly slice 1 apple crosswise or into matchsticks; immediately toss apple slices in 1/4 tsp lemon juice (from the dressing amount) if desired to prevent browning. Slice 1/2 ripe avocado right before serving into 6–8 slices. Halve 6 cherry tomatoes if using.

Assemble salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, shredded carrots, and apple slices. Add the sliced chicken and toss gently with about half of the prepared Cobb dressing (start with 2–3 tablespoons and add more to taste). Transfer tossed greens to a serving plate or bowl. Arrange chopped bacon, hard-boiled egg halves, crumbled blue cheese and avocado slices on top in sections or scattered, as preferred. Sprinkle halved cherry tomatoes if using. Season with remaining 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.

Whisk together dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup buttermilk, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon minced shallot, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk (or shake in a jar) until smooth and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more buttermilk for a thinner consistency or more honey for sweetness. Chill for at least 10 minutes so flavors meld.