The Blue Salad, or Blue Zalad as it's known in Zaxby's terminology, is a standout option on their menu, catering to customers who crave the classic combination of savory chicken and tangy blue cheese. The 'Zalad' is a full meal, not just a side, and comes loaded with a variety of fresh ingredients and textural contrasts. Understanding the components can help you decide if this rich, protein-packed salad is the right choice for your next fast-food visit.
What's in a Blue Salad from Zaxby's? The Anatomy of the Blue Zalad
The Blue Zalad is a carefully assembled salad designed to provide a burst of flavor in every bite. It starts with a base of mixed greens and adds a handful of fresh and savory toppings.
- Salad Base: A mix of crisp, fresh greens, often including iceberg or romaine lettuce, provides a fresh and crunchy foundation for the other ingredients.
- Colorful Vegetables: Shredded carrots and red cabbage are included to add a pop of color and a touch of extra texture.
- Blue Cheese Crumbles: This is the signature ingredient that gives the salad its name. The pungent, creamy crumbles are scattered throughout for a bold flavor.
- Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add a fresh, juicy element to balance the richer components.
- Crispy Fried Onions: These add a satisfying, salty crunch and a savory, toasted onion flavor.
- Chicken: You can choose between two main protein options: Fried Chicken Fingerz or Grilled Chicken. The fried option offers a crunchy, indulgent addition, while the grilled version is a lighter alternative.
- Dressing: A packet of Zaxby's rich blue cheese dressing is served alongside the salad, perfectly complementing the blue cheese crumbles.
- Texas Toast: A piece of buttery, toasted Texas Toast comes with every Zalad, providing a delicious, garlicky carbohydrate on the side.
- Buffalo Garlic Blaze Drizzle: For the fried chicken option, a drizzle of the spicy Buffalo Garlic Blaze sauce is included, adding an extra layer of flavor.
A Look Back at the Blackened Blue Zalad
For those who remember Zaxby's offerings from before 2022, the original Blue Zalad was a slightly different experience. The Blackened Blue Zalad was discontinued, much to the dismay of loyal fans. This version featured blackened grilled chicken and blackened seasoning, which gave the chicken a distinct, spicy char. When the Blackened Blue Zalad was removed, so were the blackened seasoning and the special blue cheese crumbles that came with it. The current Blue Zalad, which made a return, provides the core flavor profile but without the spicy blackened element, focusing instead on the classic fried or grilled chicken.
Blue Salad vs. Other Zaxby's Zalads: A Comparison
To help you choose your next meal, here is a comparison of the Blue Zalad with other popular salads on Zaxby's menu.
| Feature | Blue Zalad | Cobb Zalad | House Zalad |
|---|---|---|---|
| Signature Ingredients | Blue Cheese crumbles, fried onions, blue cheese dressing. | Bacon, hard-boiled eggs, cheese, fried onions, tomatoes, cucumbers. | Cheddar Jack cheese, cucumbers, tomatoes, fried onions. |
| Protein Option | Fried or Grilled Chicken. | Fried or Grilled Chicken. | Fried or Grilled Chicken. |
| Dressing | Blue Cheese Dressing. | Typically Ranch, Honey Mustard, or Vinaigrette. | Your choice of dressing. |
| Spice Level | Mild to Spicy (with Buffalo Garlic Blaze). | Mild (depending on dressing choice). | Mild (depending on dressing choice). |
| Overall Flavor Profile | Tangy, savory, and rich, with contrasting textures from crisp veggies and crunchy onions. | Classic, savory, and hearty, with a rich blend of flavors and ingredients. | Fresh and balanced, with a focus on fresh vegetables and a creamy cheese blend. |
How to Order the Perfect Blue Zalad
Whether you're a first-timer or a returning fan, here are a few tips to get the most out of your Zaxby's experience:
- Choose Your Chicken Wisely: For a classic, decadent fast-food experience, opt for the fried chicken. If you're looking for a lighter, higher-protein meal, the grilled chicken is an excellent choice.
- Add a Drizzle for Extra Flavor: Don't forget that if you order the fried chicken option, it comes with a drizzle of Buffalo Garlic Blaze sauce for an extra kick. This can be a great way to add a bit of heat and tangy flavor.
- Customize Your Toppings: Zaxby's is usually accommodating with requests. You can ask for extra blue cheese or fried onions if that's what you crave.
- Embrace the Texas Toast: Don't overlook the side of Texas Toast. It's the perfect complement to the rich and creamy salad, whether you use it to soak up dressing or eat it on its own.
- Check for Special Offers: Keep an eye on the Zaxby's website or app for potential special offers on Zalads. You might find a deal that makes your favorite meal even more affordable.
Conclusion
In summary, the blue salad from Zaxby's, formally known as the Blue Zalad, is a flavorful and satisfying meal featuring a mix of greens, tomatoes, carrots, red cabbage, fried onions, and blue cheese crumbles, all topped with either fried or grilled chicken. With its rich blue cheese dressing and a side of Texas Toast, it offers a hearty and texturally diverse fast-food option. While the original Blackened Blue Zalad is a thing of the past, the current offering still delivers the core flavor profile that fans love. For those looking for a flavorful, generous salad, the Blue Zalad is an excellent choice on the Zaxby's menu.
Visit the official Zaxby's menu for current information on the Blue Zalad.
