This Italian Chopped Salad is a refreshing, hearty, and flavorful dish perfect for any meal. Packed with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and savory deli meats, it’s tossed in a zesty Italian dressing for the ultimate bite. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 4 cups chopped Romaine lettuce or iceberg lettuce
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup cubed mozzarella cheese or provolone
- 1/2 cup chopped salami or ham
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
Wash and chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Place it in a large mixing bowl.
Add the diced tomatoes, cubed cheese, chopped salami or ham, and optional toppings like red onion and pepperoncini.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 4: Serve
Transfer the salad to a serving dish and garnish with additional cheese or herbs if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Italian Chopped Salad
Customize the Ingredients: Add artichoke hearts, olives, or croutons for extra texture and flavor.
Use Fresh Greens: Crisp lettuce like Romaine or iceberg works best for this recipe.
Make It Ahead: Prep the salad ingredients and dressing separately, then toss together just before serving to keep it fresh.
Pair It Up: Serve with a warm slice of garlic bread or as a side to pasta dishes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 9 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
Conclusion
This Italian Chopped Salad is a vibrant, versatile dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. Its combination of textures and bold flavors makes it a perfect addition to any meal. Try it today for a quick and satisfying option that everyone will love!