Introduction
North Woods Inn–Style Salad is a crisp, refreshing, and flavor-packed dish made famous by the North Woods Inn restaurants in California. Known for its unique dual-dressing combination—creamy blue-cheese dressing and tangy red cabbage dressing—it brings together bold flavors that pair beautifully with grilled dishes, especially steak and chicken.
Origin
The original salad gained popularity in the mid-20th century as part of the signature menu at Clearman’s North Woods Inn. Its rustic, lodge-style cuisine highlighted hearty meals with vibrant, generously dressed salads. Over time, the salad became iconic, with many home cooks recreating its famous double-dressing profile.
Cultural Significance
This salad is nostalgic for many West Coast families who visited the restaurant for celebrations. Its distinctive combination of two dressings, served side-by-side without mixing until tossed at the table, became a hallmark of the dining experience. Today, recreating it at home brings both flavor and a sense of tradition.
—
Ingredients & Quantities
For the Green Salad
1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
1–2 cups shredded red cabbage (optional but traditional)
2–3 green onions, sliced thin
—
For the Red Dressing (Tangy Vinaigrette)
½ cup vegetable oil
¼ cup red wine vinegar
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
—
For the Blue Cheese Dressing (Creamy)
1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
½ cup crumbled blue cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt & pepper to taste
Splash of milk to adjust consistency (optional)
—
Optional Additions
Croutons
Fresh parsley
Extra blue cheese crumbles
Cherry tomatoes
A touch of Worcestershire sauce in the blue cheese dressing
A pinch of cayenne for a subtle heat in the red dressing
—
Tips for Success
Use iceberg lettuce for authentic texture—crisp and refreshing.
Chill the lettuce to keep the salad extra crunchy.
Make both dressings ahead of time (at least 1 hour) for deeper flavor.
Don’t mix dressings before serving—the classic style is layered.
Adjust acidity by adding more lemon juice if you want a brighter finish.
—
Instructions
1. Prepare the Lettuce
Wash and dry the iceberg well.
Chop into bite-sized pieces.
Add shredded red cabbage and green onions.
Chill in the refrigerator.
2. Make the Red Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together: oil, vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Store chilled.
3. Make the Blue Cheese Dressing
Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and seasonings.
Fold in blue cheese crumbles.
Add a splash of milk for a smoother, looser texture if desired.
Chill until serving.
4. Assemble the Salad
On a plate or in a large bowl:
Add the chilled lettuce mix.
Drizzle half with red dressing.
Drizzle the other half with blue cheese dressing.
Serve immediately so guests can mix at the table.
—
Description
This iconic salad delivers a bold contrast: the cool, creamy richness of the blue cheese dressing balances the tangy, lightly sweet red vinaigrette. Crisp iceberg lettuce adds refreshing crunch, while red cabbage brings color and earthiness. Every bite is vibrant, satisfying, and memorable.
—
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
This will vary based on dressing quantity used.
Calories: ~250–350
Protein: 3–5 g
Carbohydrates: 8–12 g
Fat: 22–30 g
Fiber: 1–2 g
Calcium: Good source (thanks to blue cheese)
—
Conclusion
North Woods Inn–Style Salad stands out as a flavorful, nostalgic classic. Its double-dressing technique creates a perfect harmony of creamy and tangy elements, making it a favorite for gatherings, barbecues, or hearty meals.
—
Recommendation
Pair this salad with grilled steak, roast chicken, or garlic bread for a complete restaurant-style dining experience. Prepare both dressings in advance to make meal prep easy and the flavors more intense.
—
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This salad shows how indulgent flavors can coexist with fresh, crisp vegetables. By customizing dressing quantities, using lighter sour cream, or increasing the vegetables, you can enjoy a balance of delicious taste and nourishing ingredients—proof that comfort food can still be wholesome.
