The Pittsburgh Salad - A Local Favorite You'll Want To Make

The Pittsburgh salad has been around for many years. Though simple, you it just might become your new favorite dish.

If you are a salad lover you'll definitely find this interesting. I remember my first taste of a "Pittsbugh Salad" many years ago in a restaurant downtown with my bestie. I'll admit that I've been hooked ever since. Today, there's a good chance that you will find some version of this salad on any menu in the Pittsburgh area, though it isn't always called The Pittsburgh Salad.

What makes up a Pittsburgh Salad? They vary a bit, but the one key ingredient is french fries. The lettuce can range from iceberg to baby greens. Most of the time it's romaine. Standard salad ingredients like tomatoes, onion, and cucumbers are typical. Other things like olives, peppers and boiled eggs are often part of the salad. Another standard component is shredded cheese. Usually cheddar or an Italian cheese like mozzarella or provolone.

They also always have chicken or steak in the salad. I prefer grilled chicken, but many restaurants offer fried chicken tenders, or steak. Some places even offer seafood, like salmon or shrimp. 

The Pittsburgh Salad

Ranch dressing is the perfect complement in my opinion. Of course you can use whatever dressing you prefer. 

Why is it called The Pittsburgh Salad? I can't say for sure but I suspect that it comes from the iconic "Pittsburgher" sandwich from Primanti Bros. This popular chain of restaurants that originated in Pittsburgh, is known for it's delicious sandwiches served with fries and cole slaw in the sandwich. Primanti Bros restaurants have become so popular that you can now find them in Florida, Ohio, West Virginia,Maryland, Michigan, and Indiana.

Sound odd? Don't knock it until you try it. I bet you'll love it as much as I do.