Crisp Iceberg Lettuce with a Creamy, Tangy Gorgonzola Dressing
This classic North Woods Inn Salad is known for its crisp iceberg lettuce and rich, tangy cheese dressing. The combination is simple but incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect side for steak, grilled meats, or a hearty family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare
- No cooking required
- Crisp, refreshing lettuce
- Creamy and tangy dressing
- Bold Gorgonzola flavor
- Excellent alongside grilled meats
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 large head iceberg lettuce
- 4 oz (115 g) Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
For the Dressing
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 4 oz (115 g) Gorgonzola crumbles
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
The classic-style versions center on iceberg lettuce with a buttermilk, mayonnaise, and Gorgonzola dressing.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lettuce
Remove the outer leaves and core from the iceberg lettuce.
Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
Wash thoroughly and dry very well. Keeping the lettuce cold and dry helps preserve its signature crunch.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine:
- Buttermilk
- Mayonnaise
- Gorgonzola
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- White pepper
- Salt
Whisk or stir until creamy and well combined.
For a smoother dressing, mash some of the Gorgonzola with the back of a spoon while mixing.
Step 3: Chill
Cover the dressing and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
For a stronger flavor, refrigerate it for several hours before serving.
Step 4: Toss the Salad
Place the chilled iceberg lettuce in a large salad bowl.
Add enough dressing to coat the lettuce lightly.
Toss gently just before serving.
Step 5: Serve
Sprinkle with additional Gorgonzola crumbles if desired.
Serve immediately while the lettuce is crisp.
Tips for the Best North Woods Inn Salad
- Keep the lettuce very cold before serving.
- Dry the lettuce thoroughly so the dressing doesn’t become watery.
- Don’t dress the salad too early—the iceberg will lose its crunch.
- Let the dressing chill before serving so the garlic, onion, and Gorgonzola flavors develop.
- Add the dressing gradually; you can always add more.
Delicious Variations
Extra Creamy
Add another tablespoon or two of mayonnaise for a thicker dressing.
Garlic Gorgonzola Salad
Add ¼–½ teaspoon additional garlic powder for a stronger garlic flavor.
Steakhouse Salad
Serve with grilled steak, baked potato, and garlic cheese bread for a complete steakhouse-style meal.
Add Crunch
Top with toasted walnuts, pecans, or crispy bacon.
North Woods Inn Red Cabbage Version
For the other famous salad associated with North Woods Inn, serve this green salad alongside marinated red cabbage. The red cabbage version uses a sweet-and-tangy red wine vinegar dressing and benefits from several hours or overnight marinating.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs especially well with:
- Grilled steak
- Roast beef
- Grilled chicken
- Burgers
- BBQ ribs
- Baked potatoes
- Garlic bread
- Grilled vegetables
It’s particularly good with rich main dishes because the cold, crisp lettuce and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast.
Storage Instructions
Dressing
Store the prepared dressing in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Salad
For the best texture, keep the lettuce separate from the dressing and toss individual portions just before serving.
Once dressed, the salad is best eaten immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use blue cheese instead of Gorgonzola?
Yes. Blue cheese has a similar tangy, bold character and works well as a substitute.
Can I use ranch dressing?
You can, but it won’t have the distinctive flavor of the classic North Woods Inn-style salad.
Can I prepare the dressing ahead?
Absolutely. Making it several hours ahead gives the flavors more time to blend.
Why use iceberg lettuce?
Iceberg provides the characteristic cold, crisp crunch that makes this salad different from salads made with softer greens.
Final Thoughts
North Woods Inn Salad is proof that a great salad doesn’t need dozens of ingredients. Crisp iceberg lettuce paired with a creamy buttermilk-Gorgonzola dressing creates a simple, bold side dish that’s especially delicious with steak and other grilled meats.
For the best result, keep everything cold, chill the dressing, and toss the salad right before serving.
