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The Ultimate Italian Chopped Salad: A Flavorful Classic That Never Disappoints

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!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Method Notes

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

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

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