Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chopped salad balances a variety of textures and flavors—crunchy, creamy, salty, and tangy—in every bite. It’s easy to prepare and customize, packed with fresh ingredients, and pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a light meal on its own.
Ingredients
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4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 avocado, diced
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1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta
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1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
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1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
For the dressing:
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1/4 cup red wine vinegar
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1/2 cup olive oil
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1 tsp honey
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1 clove garlic, minced
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified. -
Assemble Salad:
In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, avocado, cheese, red onion, and parsley. -
Toss Salad:
Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. -
Serve:
Serve immediately as a side or light main dish.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
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Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp.
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Cheese Options: Substitute with goat cheese or shredded cheddar.
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Vegetarian: add toasted nuts or seeds.
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Dressing: Use ranch or blue cheese dressing for a creamier option.
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Herbs: Swap parsley for basil or mint for a different flavor.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store components separately and assemble just before serving for best freshness.
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Reheating: Not recommended; serve fresh.
FAQs
Can I prepare this salad ahead?
Yes, but keep dressing and avocado separate until serving to prevent browning.
Can I use other greens?
Yes, kale or mixed greens work well.
How do I keep avocado from browning?
Toss with lemon juice or add just before serving.
Can I freeze this salad?
No, freezing will ruin the texture of fresh vegetables.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
Can I use store-bought dressing?
Yes, choose a similar vinaigrette or your favorite dressing.
Can I add croutons?
Yes, for extra crunch.
What sides pair well?
Serve with grilled meats, soups, or crusty bread.
Conclusion
Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make salad that brings together vibrant ingredients and a zesty dressing. It’s perfect for elevating any meal with its satisfying combination of textures and tastes, making it a favorite for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack, Side Dish
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Ruth’s Chris Chopped Salad is a crisp, colorful steakhouse-style salad featuring fresh romaine, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and tangy cheese tossed in a zesty vinaigrette. This quick and vibrant dish makes the perfect side or light main and brings bold flavors to your table in just minutes.
Ingredients
Salad:
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4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
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1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta
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1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
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1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Dressing:
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1/4 cup red wine vinegar
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1/2 cup olive oil
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1 tsp honey
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1 clove garlic, minced
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, avocado, cheese, red onion, and parsley.cheese, red onion
Toss and Serve:
Drizzle with dressing and gently toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately.
Notes
Add grilled chicken or steak to make it a main dish.Use goat cheese, cheddar, or mozzarella for variety.Toss avocado in lemon juice if prepping ahead.Store dressing separately for meal prep or entertaining.
