Santa Barbara Cobb Salad from The Habit Burger Grill features fresh mixed greens topped with grilled chicken, crisp bacon, ripe avocado, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, and blue cheese crumbles, all drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette, creating a colorful and flavorful meal that balances savory and fresh ingredients.
Equipments
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Salad spinner
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Saucepan (for boiling eggs)
- Slotted spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk (for vinaigrette)
- Serving platter or large salad bowl
- Salad tongs
Ingredients
- Mixed greens
- Grilled chicken breast
- Bacon
- Avocado
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Tomatoes
- Blue cheese crumbles
- Vinaigrette
Fresh mixed greens provide the base for the Santa Barbara Cobb Salad, so choosing a crisp, high-quality blend enhances texture and flavor. Grilled chicken breast should be cooked thoroughly and seasoned to complement the savory bacon and creamy avocado. Hard-boiled eggs need to be peeled carefully to avoid any shell fragments, ensuring a smooth presentation. Blue cheese crumbles add a tangy richness; if you're sensitive to strong flavors, you can adjust the amount to suit Your taste. The zesty vinaigrette ties all ingredients together, so whisking it well before drizzling helps maintain the salad's vibrant flavor profile. This Santa Barbara Cobb Salad from The Habit Burger Grill copycat menu captures the perfect harmony of fresh and savory ingredients.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan.
- Season and grill chicken breast; let rest and slice.
- Cook bacon until crisp; drain and crumble.
- Boil eggs in saucepan; cool, peel, and quarter.
- Wash and dry mixed greens using salad spinner.
- Dice tomatoes.
- Slice avocado.
- Prepare vinaigrette with whisk in mixing bowl.
- Arrange mixed greens on serving platter or large salad bowl.
- Evenly top greens with sliced chicken, bacon, avocado, eggs, tomatoes, and blue cheese crumbles.
- Drizzle with prepared vinaigrette.
- Toss gently if desired, or serve layered as is.
- Serve immediately with salad tongs.
Substitution
The Santa Barbara Cobb Salad from The Habit Burger Grill copycat menu combines grilled chicken, crisp bacon, ripe avocado, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles, and mixed greens with a zesty vinaigrette. You can substitute grilled chicken with rotisserie chicken or turkey breast if fresh grilling isn't an option. For blue cheese, feta or goat cheese provide a milder alternative that still adds creaminess. Avocado can be replaced with sliced cucumbers or a handful of nuts for added texture if unavailable. When boiling eggs, using a slotted spoon to transfer them to an ice bath helps achieve perfect peeling and prevents overcooking.
Tips
Ensure the grilled chicken is fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC), and allow it to rest before slicing to retain juiciness. Use a salad spinner to thoroughly dry mixed greens, preventing a watery vinaigrette and soggy salad. When boiling eggs, place them in cold water first and simmer gently for 9-12 minutes to achieve firm yolks without cracking. If you prefer, gently toss the salad with vinaigrette just before serving to maintain a fresh and vibrant presentation.
Nutritions
Santa Barbara Cobb Salad from The Habit Burger Grill provides a rich source of protein from grilled chicken, bacon, and hard-boiled eggs, supporting muscle repair and energy. Avocado adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber, while mixed greens and tomatoes offer essential vitamins and antioxidants like vitamin C and potassium. Blue cheese crumbles contribute calcium and a distinctive flavor, enhancing the overall nutrient profile. Your meal delivers a balanced combination of savory and fresh ingredients that fuel your body with diverse nutrients.
Storage
Store your Santa Barbara Cobb Salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness, keeping the vinaigrette separate to prevent sogginess. Refrigerate the salad at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 1-2 days for optimal taste and safety. To enjoy the best texture, add the avocado and vinaigrette just before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
Consider substituting grilled chicken with seared salmon or turkey for a different protein profile that complements the salad's fresh ingredients. Swap blue cheese crumbles with feta or goat cheese to vary the salad's tangy flavor while maintaining creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, replace bacon with smoked turkey bacon or omit it entirely, enhancing your salad with toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts. You can also experiment with the vinaigrette by adding a hint of honey or mustard to tailor the dressing to your personal taste preferences.
Allergies
Santa Barbara Cobb Salad from The Habit Burger Grill contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy from blue cheese crumbles, and bacon, which may pose a risk for individuals with egg, milk, or pork allergies. The vinaigrette dressing could also contain allergens like mustard or sulfites depending on its specific formulation. Be sure to inform your server about any food allergies to ensure your meal is prepared safely.
Why this recipe?
The Santa Barbara Cobb Salad from The Habit Burger Grill features a vibrant mix of fresh greens, ripe avocado, grilled chicken, and hard-boiled eggs, topped with crispy bacon and a tangy dressing that delivers a perfect balance of flavors. Nutrient-rich ingredients provide a satisfying, hearty meal while supporting your health goals. Its combination of textures and bold flavors makes it a popular choice for both health-conscious diners and those seeking a fulfilling taste experience. Trying a copycat recipe lets you enjoy this gourmet salad at home, customizing ingredients to match your personal preferences and dietary needs.