Cobb Salad with Ham - A Protein-Packed Salad Meal

The Cobb salad is a classic that packs nearly a full meal into one bowl. Chopped greens are topped with turkey or ham, hard boiled eggs, avocado, tomatoes, bacon, and blue cheese. The combination of flavors and textures is what makes this salad so satisfying. Follow this easy recipe for building a Cobb salad with ham as the star protein. It makes for a perfect light lunch or dinner.

Chop the Base Ingredients

Start by chopping 6 cups mixed salad greens. Romaine, spinach, and red leaf lettuce work well. Then dice 2 tomatoes, 1 avocado, 4 slices cooked bacon, and 1⁄2 red onion.

Hard Boil the Eggs

Place 2 large eggs in a small pot with water to cover by 1 inch. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat. Let eggs stand 12 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath. Peel once cooled.

Prepare the Ham

Use about 1⁄2 pound sliced deli ham. Cut or tear into bite-sized pieces. You want roughly equal amounts of ham as the other mix-in ingredients.

Assemble the Salad

Place chopped salad greens in a large bowl or divide between 4 plates. Arrange rows or sections of each ingredient - ham, tomato, egg, avocado, bacon, onion. Top with 1⁄4 cup crumbled blue cheese.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tsp Dijon, and salt and pepper to taste.

Finish and Serve

Drizzle dressing over salad just before serving. Garnish with chopped chives if desired.

This protein-packed Cobb salad makes a satisfying lunch or light dinner. Customize with your favorite ingredients!

Possible Additions

- Diced Chicken

- Chopped Celery

- Sliced Almonds

- Croutons

- Sliced Grapes

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ham works best?

Sliced deli ham or honey ham work well. Avoid very thick slices.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken can replace the ham if preferred.

How long do the eggs need to boil?

Boil for 12 minutes exactly, then ice bath to stop cooking.

Is the salad okay to eat cold?

Yes, the Cobb salad is meant to be served and eaten chilled.

Can I prep this salad ahead of time?

Chop ingredients but assemble just before serving to prevent wilting.

With its mix of flavors and textures, this hearty Cobb salad with ham is an easy, satisfying meal any time of day.