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North Woods Inn Salad (Copycat Recipe)

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  • Author: Evelyn Marcella Rivera
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 Servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

If you’ve been craving that distinct flavor of the iconic North Woods Inn salad but can’t make the trip, you’re in luck. This copycat recipe brings the magic of that legendary steakhouse starter right into your own kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you can recreate the creamy, cheesy, garlic-infused dressing that has won hearts for decades. It’s the perfect side dish for steak night!

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Salad:

  • 1 large head Iceberg Lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces

For the Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup Buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (full-fat recommended)
  • 4 oz Gorgonzola Crumbles (or blue cheese)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon White Pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt

Instructions

  1. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine the buttermilk, mayonnaise, gorgonzola crumbles, garlic powder, onion powder, white pepper, and salt. Whisk or shake vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  2. Chill: Cover the dressing and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight). This allows the flavors to meld and the dried spices to hydrate for the most authentic taste.
  3. Prepare the Lettuce: Wash the head of iceberg lettuce thoroughly. Spin it in a salad spinner or pat it completely dry with paper towels. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Toss and Serve: Place the chopped lettuce in a large serving bowl. Pour the dressing over the lettuce just before serving. Toss well until every leaf is evenly coated. Serve immediately on chilled plates.

Notes

  • Dry Lettuce is Key: Ensure the iceberg lettuce is very dry before tossing. If it’s wet, the creamy dressing will slide right off instead of clinging to the leaves.
  • White Pepper: Do not substitute black pepper if you want the authentic North Woods flavor! White pepper provides that specific earthy heat essential to the recipe.
  • Make Ahead: The dressing tastes even better the next day, making this a great make-ahead component for dinner parties.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad, Side Dish, Copycat
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 275 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg

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Find it online: https://blesseddish.com/north-woods-inn-salad-copycat-recipe/