Mediterranean Cobb Salad
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
This Mediterranean Cobb Salad takes the classic American favorite and gives it a lighter, fresher twist. With crisp greens, juicy chicken, creamy avocado, tangy blue cheese, and a mix of Mediterranean-inspired freshness, it’s a hearty yet balanced salad that works as a full meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, it’s all about bright flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Chopped salad greens (such as romaine lettuce or a mix) – about 6 cups
Cooked chicken – 2 cups, diced or shredded (grilled or rotisserie)
Hard-boiled eggs – 2, quartered or chopped
Crispy bacon – 4 slices, cooked and crumbled
Tomatoes – 1 cup, chopped or cherry tomatoes halved
Avocado – 1 large, sliced or diced
Crumbled blue cheese – ½ cup
Optional Dressing Ideas:
Classic: Olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper
Creamy: Greek yogurt, garlic, olive oil, and a splash of red wine vinegar
Instructions
Prepare the ingredients:
Wash and chop the lettuce. Cook and dice the chicken if not already prepared. Hard-boil and chop the eggs, and cook the bacon until crisp.
Arrange the salad base:
Spread the chopped salad greens evenly on a large serving platter or bowl.
Add the toppings:
Arrange rows (or sections) of chicken, eggs, bacon, tomatoes, avocado, and blue cheese neatly over the greens. This creates the classic “Cobb look.”
Dress and toss (optional):
Drizzle your preferred dressing just before serving, or serve it on the side so everyone can add their own.
Serve immediately:
Enjoy it fresh, or chill briefly before serving for a cooler, crisp texture.
Tips & Variations
Protein Choices
Grilled chicken: Use marinated grilled chicken for extra flavor—try a simple olive oil, lemon, and oregano marinade.
Rotisserie chicken: A great shortcut for busy days; just shred and add.
Seafood twist: Swap chicken for grilled shrimp, tuna, or salmon for a Mediterranean coastal vibe.
Vegetarian option: Replace the meat with grilled halloumi, roasted chickpeas, or falafel pieces for a protein-rich vegetarian version.
Dressing Ideas
Classic Mediterranean Vinaigrette: Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Creamy Greek Yogurt Dressing: Blend Greek yogurt with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like dill or parsley.
Tahini-Lemon Dressing: Mix tahini, lemon juice, water, and a bit of honey for a nutty, tangy dressing that complements the blue cheese nicely.
Tip: Always dress right before serving to keep the greens crisp. If meal prepping, store dressing separately.
Greens & Base
Romaine lettuce gives the best crunch, but you can mix in baby spinach, arugula, or kale for variety.
For more texture, add a handful of shredded cabbage or radicchio.
Chill your greens for 10 minutes before assembling—this keeps the salad crisp and refreshing.
Add-Ons for Mediterranean Flair
Olives: Kalamata or green olives add a nice briny flavor.
Cucumbers: Add freshness and crunch—especially good with creamy dressings.
Roasted red peppers: Bring sweetness and color contrast.
Artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes: Add a deeper Mediterranean note.
Fresh herbs: Parsley, mint, or basil brighten up the entire salad.
Cheese Variations
Blue cheese gives a bold tang, but you can substitute feta for a milder Mediterranean taste.
Crumbled goat cheese also works beautifully with tomatoes and avocado.
If you want a lighter touch, sprinkle just a small amount and balance it with more veggies.
Avocado & Egg Tips
Avocado: Slice it just before serving to prevent browning. A squeeze of lemon juice can help keep it fresh.
Eggs: For perfect hard-boiled eggs, simmer for 10 minutes, cool in ice water, then peel. Slightly softer yolks (8–9 minutes) make the salad creamier.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Prep all ingredients separately and store in airtight containers.
Combine just before eating for the best texture.
The salad (without dressing or avocado) can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Cooked chicken and bacon last up to 4 days refrigerated.
Presentation Tip
Arrange ingredients in neat rows or colorful sections for a beautiful “Cobb-style” layout.
Finish with a sprinkle of herbs or a drizzle of dressing for a restaurant-style look.
For Extra Crunch
Add toasted nuts (like almonds or pine nuts) or crunchy chickpeas.
Homemade pita chips on the side can make it feel more Mediterranean and satisfying.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the dressing and avocado separate until serving. Assemble the greens, chicken, eggs, bacon, and tomatoes in advance, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. Add avocado and dressing right before eating to keep it fresh and creamy.
Q: What’s the best dressing for a Mediterranean Cobb Salad?
A light vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard complements the ingredients well. If you prefer creamy dressings, try a Greek yogurt or tahini-based one—they pair beautifully with the blue cheese and avocado.
Q: Can I use a different cheese instead of blue cheese?
Absolutely. Feta or goat cheese are great options for a milder, Mediterranean-style flavor. You can also mix cheeses for a balanced taste.
Q: How can I make it vegetarian or vegan?
For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and chicken, and add chickpeas, lentils, or grilled halloumi.
For vegan, use plant-based bacon or tofu, skip the eggs and cheese, and try a creamy hummus or tahini dressing instead.
Q: Can I use leftover chicken or turkey?
Yes. Leftover grilled or roasted chicken (or even turkey) works perfectly in this salad, making it a great way to use up cooked protein.
Q: How long will leftovers last?
If stored properly (without dressing or avocado), the salad will last up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Once dressed, it’s best enjoyed within a few hours.
Nutrition
(Approx. per serving)
(Based on 4 servings with olive oil-lemon dressing)
Calories: 420
Protein: 32g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 590mg
Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and dressing choice.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Cobb Salad is a fresh and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. It’s colorful, protein-packed, and easy to customize for any diet. With crisp greens, creamy avocado, juicy chicken, and tangy cheese, it’s a full meal that feels indulgent yet balanced. Perfect for busy weeknights, lunches, or meal prep—it’s proof that healthy food can be satisfying and full of flavor.