Description
This Flavor-Packed Italian Chopped Salad is a vibrant mix of crunchy vegetables, savory meats, and zesty homemade dressing. Loaded with bold Italian flavors, it’s the perfect refreshing dish for a quick lunch, side, or a standout potluck favorite. Bursting with textures and tastes, it’s a salad that proves healthy eating can be deliciously indulgent!
Ingredients
For the salad:
- 2–4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/4 – 1/2 cup salami, thin strips
- 1/4 – 1/2 cup pepperoni, thin strips
- 1/2 cup black olives
- 1/2 cup green olives
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini, sliced
- 1 cup English cucumber, sliced and quartered
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 1/4 cup Italian croutons, crushed
- 2–3 tablespoons parmesan cheese, finely grated
For the dressing:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 4 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
- 2 teaspoons dried marjoram leaves
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves
- 4 teaspoons dried basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley leaves
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing – In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together all dressing ingredients until fully combined. Adjust olive oil for desired consistency. Set aside.
- Assemble the Salad – In a large bowl, toss together romaine lettuce, salami, pepperoni, black and green olives, red onion, pepperoncini, cucumber, tomatoes, crushed croutons, and parmesan cheese.
- Dress and Serve – Drizzle with dressing, toss well, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Keep dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
- Enhance the flavor with add-ins like garbanzo beans, diced bell pepper, fresh mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Italian