Are you looking for a low-calorie, healthy salad option? Look no further than the Classic Cobb Salad, which only contains 240 calories per 2 serving (234 g) portion.
This salad is jam-packed with nutrient-dense ingredients, including Avocado, Chicken, hard-boiled Eggs, and Bacon. It's a well-balanced meal that will keep you feeling full and satisfied, without tipping the scales in terms of calories or unhealthy fats.
In this article, we'll explore how to prepare this delicious salad, its nutritional value, and its health benefits.
Ingredients
To make a Classic Cobb Salad, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of mixed salad greens
- 1 cooked Chicken breast, chopped
- 3 strips of Bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
- 1/2 an Avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup of crumbled Blue cheese
- 1/4 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons of a vinaigrette Dressing of your choice
Calories breakdown
As previously mentioned, a 2 serving (234 g) portion of Classic Cobb Salad contains approximately 240 calories. Here is the calorie breakdown for each ingredient:
- Mixed salad greens: 10 calories
- Cooked Chicken breast: 100 calories
- Bacon: 70 calories
- Hard-boiled egg: 60 calories
- Avocado: 50 calories
- Blue cheese: 20 calories
- Cherry tomatoes: 10 calories
- Vinaigrette Dressing: 20 calories
Preparation time
To prepare the Classic Cobb Salad, you'll need to set aside approximately 15-20 minutes. This will give you enough time to cook the Chicken and Bacon, prepare the hard-boiled egg, and chop the other ingredients.
Nutritional value
The Classic Cobb Salad is rich in several important nutrients, including:
- Protein: Chicken and hard-boiled Eggs are excellent sources of protein, which help to build and repair tissues in the body.
- Fiber: Mixed salad greens and cherry tomatoes are high in fiber, which is essential for maintaining healthy digestion.
- Healthy fats: Avocado contains heart-healthy unsaturated fats, while Bacon and Blue cheese provide a small amount of saturated fat.
- Essential vitamins: Hard-boiled eggs are a good source of vitamins A and D, while cherry tomatoes are high in vitamin C.
Health benefits
Eating a Classic Cobb Salad can provide numerous health benefits, including:
- Weight management: With only 240 calories per serving, the Classic Cobb Salad is a great low-calorie option for those looking to manage their weight.
- Improved digestion: The fiber found in mixed salad greens and cherry tomatoes can help to maintain healthy digestion.
- Heart health: The unsaturated fat found in Avocado can help to promote heart health, while the small amount of saturated fat found in Bacon and Blue cheese won't have a significant negative impact on heart health when consumed in moderation.
- Blood sugar control: The protein and fiber found in the Classic Cobb Salad can help to regulate blood sugar levels.
Suitable for
The Classic Cobb Salad is suitable for a variety of dietary needs and preferences, including:
- Gluten-free: This salad does not contain any gluten, making it a great option for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
- Low-carb: With only 11 grams of carbs per serving, the Classic Cobb Salad is a great option for those following a low-carb diet.
- High-protein: With 27 grams of protein per serving, the Classic Cobb Salad is a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
- Keto-friendly: This salad is also suitable for those following a ketogenic diet, as it is low in carbs and high in healthy fats.
Variations
Looking to switch up the Classic Cobb Salad? Here are a few variations you might consider:
- Vegetarian: Replace the Chicken and Bacon with chickpeas, roasted sweet potato, or grilled portobello mushrooms.
- Seafood: Swap out the chicken for shrimp or crab meat.
- Mexican-style: Add some sliced jalapenos and swap the Blue cheese for crumbled cotija cheese.
Taste
The Classic Cobb Salad is a delicious combination of flavors and textures. The creamy Avocado pairs perfectly with the salty Bacon and Blue cheese, while the Chicken and hard-boiled egg add a satisfying protein boost. The vinaigrette Dressing ties all of the flavors together, creating a well-balanced and tasty meal.
Serving suggestions
The Classic Cobb Salad is a great option for lunch or dinner. Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for a more substantial meal.
- Pair with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir for a sophisticated taste.
- Top with some crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy twist.
Allergens
The Classic Cobb Salad contains several common allergens, including dairy and Eggs. If you have a food allergy or sensitivity, be sure to modify this recipe accordingly.
Eating healthy doesn't have to be boring. The Classic Cobb Salad is a delicious, nutrient-rich meal that is easy to prepare and suits a variety of dietary preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions about Classic Cobb Salad
1. What ingredients are in a Classic Cobb Salad?
A Classic Cobb Salad typically includes lettuce, tomatoes, Bacon, hard-boiled Eggs, Avocado, Blue cheese, and Chicken, all chopped and arranged in separate sections on the salad.
2. How many calories are in a serving of Classic Cobb Salad?
A serving of Classic Cobb Salad, which is 234 grams, contains 240 calories.
3. Can I modify the ingredients in a Classic Cobb Salad to make it healthier?
Absolutely! Some modifications to make a Classic Cobb Salad healthier include using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, using a low-fat or fat-free Dressing, and adding more vegetables like cucumber and bell peppers.
4. Is a Classic Cobb Salad a good choice for a low-carb diet?
Yes, a Classic Cobb Salad is an excellent choice for a low-carb diet as it is high in protein and healthy fats and contains minimal carbs.
5. Can I make a Classic Cobb Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make a Classic Cobb Salad ahead of time by prepping all of the ingredients and storing them separately. When you're ready to eat, simply arrange the ingredients on a plate or in a bowl, and add your preferred dressing.