Our copycat classic diner chef salad is a throwback to that perfect entree you just can't seem to find anymore. It's loaded with cheese, ham, and bacon!
You can get a salad just about anywhere so why put it on a blog? Well, while it's true that most salads are a "dime a dozen," but a great salad is hard to find.
Take the classic diner salad as an example. What was once a mainstay in the American restaurant industry has now faded away.
Even with the diner revival of the 2000's it's still a challenge to find a chef salad that qualifies as a meal.
That's why we had to share our copycat classic diner chef salad. It's exactly like the salads I grew up eating at our local diner.
We prepared it just like they used with iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, mushrooms, and many other toppings.
I know it may seem a little retro compared to modern offerings that feature two or three ingredients and come topped with a vinaigrette I can hardly pronounce.
Don't get me wrong; we enjoy fine dining just as much as anyone else. If you don't believe me, then check out our French-inspired steak dinner for two.
It's a gorgeous meal with multiple courses. But let's face it, sometimes you want a hearty salad that eats like a meal.
This chef salad is exactly what I am looking for when I want some protein with my greens.
Now, at this point, you're probably wondering what's on this behemoth of a dish.
How about we take it from the top? We used a ranch dressing for this chef salad.
I wish I could tell you everything that was layered into this chef salad, but I would run out of room on the page before I could share all the vegetables.
So, I'll just stick to what makes this dish so delicious.
In addition to a new dressing, we used diced ham and cheese.
The cubes of cured pork and shredded cheddar cheese pair perfectly, adding a savory element to every bite.
Additionally, the crunchy bacon gives the chef salad a salty flavor that everyone loves. Using two kinds of onion gives the offering a little kick of spice.
I could go on and on about every ingredient and how they compliment and contrast each other, but what would be the fun in that?
I suggest you give this salad a try and see for yourself. Go ahead and use your favorite dressing or try one of ours.
In closing, I wish everyone a long life, everlasting love, and belly full of crunchy salad!
If you like this recipe, please leave us a comment and rate the recipe card. You can also find us on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter and Instagram searching for Berly's Kitchen!
Recipe Card with Ingredient Amounts and Instructions
Suggested Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 slices bacon, cooked and diced
- 1 hard boiled egg, halved
- ½ head iceberg lettuce, sliced or shredded
- 1 tomato, cut into wedges
- 1 carrot, sliced
- ½ white onion, sliced into rings
- ½ cup mushrooms, sliced
- ½ cucumber, sliced
- 1 tablespoon green onion, chopped
- 1 ounce sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon ham, diced
Instructions
- Cook the bacon over medium heat in a skillet. Then, dice it into pieces and set it aside. Hard boil an egg, peel it, halve it, and set it aside.2 slices bacon1 hard boiled egg
- Next, wash and prep all of the vegetables including the lettuce, tomato, onions, mushrooms, carrot, and cucumber.½ head iceberg lettuce1 tomato1 carrot½ white onion½ cup mushrooms½ cucumber1 tablespoon green onion
- Afterward, shred the cheese and dice the ham and set them aside in separate bowls.1 ounce sharp cheddar cheese1 tablespoon ham
- Last, build your salad starting with lettuce and finishing with the cheese. Toss everything together and then top the dish with your favorite salad dressing.
Melissa says
I LOVE chef salad so much when I am out to dinner but I never think to make it at home. I am going to give this copycat recipe a try. The smoked ham sounds so yummy and the perfect addition. I never remember what is in a good chef salad at home.
John says
Thank you, Melissa! I've heard people say they can never remember what's in a chef salad. I can relate, they are loaded with so many ingredients. I am glad you want to give our recipe a try. Have a lovely Sunday!
Melissa says
I LOVE chef salad so much when I am out to dinner but I never think to make it at home. I am going to give this copycat recipe a try. The smoked ham sounds so yummy and the perfect addition. I never remember what is in a good chef salad at home.
Melissa says
I LOVE chef salad so much when I am out to dinner but I never think to make it at home. I am going to give this copycat recipe a try. The smoked ham sounds so yummy and the perfect addition. I never remember what is in a good chef salad at home.
Amanda Kee says
I am one of those folks that can eat a salad every day without no problem! This salad looks so good and refreshing! Chef salads are my go-to. I love trying new flavors and such, but a chef salad is always safe and satisfying! =D
John says
Thank you, Amanda! I know what you mean, I could eat a salad every day. In fact, today feels like a caesar salad day lol! Thank you again for commenting and have a lovely Sunday 🙂
Amanda Kee says
I am one of those folks that can eat a salad every day without no problem! This salad looks so good and refreshing! Chef salads are my go-to. I love trying new flavors and such, but a chef salad is always safe and satisfying! =D
Amanda Kee says
I am one of those folks that can eat a salad every day without no problem! This salad looks so good and refreshing! Chef salads are my go-to. I love trying new flavors and such, but a chef salad is always safe and satisfying! =D