Lettuce Wedge Bites are cute little snacks that pack a healthy crunch! Fresh iceberg lettuce is cut into wedges and topped with creamy ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and cherry tomatoes.
These bites are perfect for parties or when you just want something light and tasty. I love serving them as an easy appetizer that everyone can enjoy. Just be careful, they disappear fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lettuce: Romaine is a great choice for its crunchy texture, but Iceberg works well if you want that classic wedge feel. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also use leafy greens like butter lettuce for a milder taste.
Dressing: Blue cheese dressing is delicious, but ranch is a popular alternative. If you’re looking for something lighter, try a yogurt-based dressing instead.
Blue Cheese: Crumbled blue cheese adds a strong flavor. For those who don’t like it, feta or goat cheese can make a great substitute. They won’t be as strong but will still add creaminess.
Bacon: Crispy bacon gives that nice salty crunch. You can swap it for turkey bacon if you want a leaner option or crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
How Do I Cut Lettuce Wedges Without Making a Mess?
Cutting lettuce wedges can be tricky, but here’s a simple way to do it cleanly. First, make sure your lettuce is completely dry. Wet lettuce can be slippery, which makes cutting harder.
- Start by removing the core: Hold the lettuce head upright and use a knife to cut out the core at the bottom.
- Cut the head in half: Place it cut-side down on the board and slice down through the center.
- Make wedges: Cut each half into smaller wedges, about 2-3 inches wide.
Keep a towel nearby to wipe off your knife if it gets slippery, and use a gentle sawing motion to avoid crushing the leaves!
How to Make Lettuce Wedge Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 head of Romaine or Iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup blue cheese dressing (or ranch dressing)
- 1/3 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 6-8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and perfect for surprising guests or enjoying as a light snack. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lettuce:
Start by washing the lettuce head under cool water. Pat it dry thoroughly with a towel. Remove the core from the bottom carefully using a knife.
2. Cut the Wedges:
Once the core is out, cut the lettuce into small, bite-sized wedges or quarters. Aim for pieces that are easy to pick up and eat in one bite.
3. Arrange on a Platter:
Take your beautiful lettuce wedges and arrange them on a serving tray or platter. Make them look nice and inviting!
4. Add the Dressing:
Drizzle each wedge with blue cheese dressing for that creamy flavor. If you prefer ranch dressing, feel free to use that instead—it’s delicious too!
5. Sprinkle with Blue Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the blue cheese crumbles evenly over the wedges. This adds that rich flavor that complements the dressing perfectly.
6. Top with Bacon:
Now for the best part—add the crumbled bacon on top of each wedge. The salty crunch of bacon brings everything together.
7. Add Tomatoes and Onion:
Distribute the quartered cherry tomatoes and chopped red onion across the wedges. This will add a fresh touch and a pop of color!
8. Season It Up:
Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. It adds a little kick and extra flavor to your bites.
9. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, add some fresh parsley or chives for a lovely garnish. It makes them look extra special. Serve immediately so everyone can enjoy these fresh, crunchy bites!
Enjoy your crisp, flavorful Lettuce Wedge Bites!
Can I Use Other Types of Dressing?
Absolutely! While blue cheese dressing is classic, ranch dressing is a popular alternative. You can also try a yogurt-based dressing for a lighter option, or even a balsamic vinaigrette for a tangy twist!
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a bacon substitute, turkey bacon provides a leaner option. You could also use crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian alternative or simply omit it for a lighter dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
For any leftover Lettuce Wedge Bites, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best to keep the dressing and toppings separate to prevent sogginess. They can last for up to 1 day in the fridge, but they’re best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the toppings ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the fridge. Just assemble the wedges right before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and fresh!