🧾 Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 large head iceberg lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prepare the lettuce: Rinse and chop the iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry completely with paper towels and chill in the fridge until ready to serve.
- Make the dressing: In a medium mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Add the cheese: Fold in the crumbled blue cheese, mixing gently so you maintain small chunks for texture.
- Assemble the salad: Place chilled lettuce in a large bowl or platter. Drizzle generously with the creamy blue cheese dressing.
- Serve immediately: Toss gently before serving or serve with the dressing layered on top for that signature restaurant look.
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
- Make it lighter: Substitute Greek yogurt for part of the sour cream for a tangier, lower-fat option.
- Extra crunch: Add chopped red cabbage, shredded carrots, or toasted croutons for texture.
- Bold flavor: Use freshly crumbled blue cheese instead of pre-packaged for maximum flavor.
- Authentic experience: Pair with warm garlic cheese bread and a grilled ribeye — just like North Woods Inn!
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the dressing for at least an hour before use to deepen the flavor.
❄️ Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Dressing: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir before serving.
- Lettuce: Keep chopped lettuce wrapped in paper towels in a sealed bag for up to 2 days.
- Assembled Salad: Best served fresh — if stored, dressing may soften the lettuce after a few hours.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of lettuce?
Yes! While iceberg gives the authentic crunch, romaine or a blend of iceberg and red cabbage also works beautifully. What kind of blue cheese works best?
Use a mild and creamy variety like Danish Blue or Gorgonzola for the perfect balance of tang and richness. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, it’s even better the next day as the flavors develop and intensify overnight. What should I serve with North Woods Inn Salad?
This salad pairs best with steak, roast chicken, or the classic North Woods Inn garlic cheese bread for a nostalgic restaurant-style meal.
🌿 Final Thoughts
The North Woods Inn Salad is a true classic — a simple combination of crisp lettuce and creamy dressing that delivers rich, satisfying flavor every time. Whether served alongside a hearty main dish or enjoyed as a refreshing starter, it’s the kind of recipe that never goes out of style.