Italian Chopped Salad 

This vibrant and hearty Italian Chopped Salad is a delightful medley of crisp vegetables, savory meats, and creamy cheeses, all tossed in a zesty homemade vinaigrette. Inspired by classic antipasto flavors, it's perfect as a main dish or a side to complement your favorite Italian meals. The combination of textures and bold tastes makes this salad a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped

• 1 small head radicchio, chopped

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced

• 1 small cucumber, diced

• 10 pepperoncini peppers, sliced

• 12 ounces mini mozzarella balls, halved

• 1 cup freshly shaved Parmesan cheese

• ¾ cup pitted black olives, halved

• 6 ounces salami, cut into matchsticks

• ½ cup pickled red onions (optional)

• 1 ounce fresh basil leaves, sliced into ribbons

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon sea salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1 garlic clove, minced

Directions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and minced garlic until well combined.

2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, radicchio, halved cherry tomatoes, diced bell pepper, diced cucumber, sliced pepperoncini, halved mozzarella balls, shaved Parmesan cheese, halved black olives, matchstick-cut salami, pickled red onions (if using), and sliced fresh basil leaves.

3. Assemble the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

4. Serve: Divide the salad among serving plates and enjoy immediately. This salad can also be served as a side dish to complement your favorite Italian entrees.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 399 kcal

• Protein: 16g

• Total Fat: 32g

  • Saturated Fat: 8g

• Cholesterol: 19mg

• Sodium: 580mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 11g

  • Dietary Fiber: 3g

  • Sugars: 5g