Description
Italian Chopped Salad
Ingredients
4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup sliced salami or pepperoni (optional)
1/4 cup shredded or cubed provolone cheese
For the Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
In a large salad bowl, layer romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, chickpeas, artichoke hearts, parsley, salami, and provolone cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh and flavorful meal!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: None!
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~250 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfectly assembled salad every time. First, thoroughly wash and dry your romaine lettuce, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Next, prepare all your vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion. For the red onion, soaking the slices in ice water for 10 minutes will mellow their sharp bite. Rinse and drain the chickpeas, chop the artichoke hearts and parsley, and cube the provolone. If using salami, slice it into thin strips. Layer all ingredients attractively in a large, wide bowl. For the dressing, combine all ingredients in a jar with a tight lid and shake vigorously until emulsified. Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring every component is lightly coated.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines as a standalone lunch but can be elevated for any occasion. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a bowl of minestrone soup or a slice of rustic focaccia. To turn it into a main course, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or flaked tuna. For a party, serve it in a large, clear trifle bowl to showcase the colorful layers. It’s also an excellent filling for a wrap or pita pocket for a portable lunch option.
How-to Summary
Chop all vegetables and protein. Layer ingredients in a bowl. Whisk oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, and seasoning for the dressing. Toss salad with dressing just before serving for maximum crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, for meal prep, store the chopped ingredients and dressing separately. Combine them no more than 1-2 hours before serving to prevent sogginess.
What’s a good vegetarian substitute for the salami? Omit the salami and add roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or a handful of toasted pine nuts for savory depth.
How can I make the dressing creamier? Add a tablespoon of mayonnaise or grated Parmesan cheese to the dressing ingredients before whisking.
What other cheeses work well? Fresh mozzarella pearls, sharp Parmesan shavings, or crumbled feta are excellent alternatives to provolone.
Is there a way to reduce the calories? You can lightly spray the salad with vinegar and use less oil, or substitute half the oil with a splash of water or lemon juice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding the dressing too early, as it will wilt the lettuce. Do not skip rinsing the canned chickpeas, as the liquid is starchy and can muddy flavors. Ensure all ingredients are chopped to a similar, bite-sized scale for the perfect “chopped” texture. Finally, do not underestimate the power of seasoning; always taste and adjust the dressing with salt and pepper before tossing.
Conclusion
This Italian Chopped Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a vibrant, customizable, and satisfying meal that comes together in minutes. Its perfect balance of crisp vegetables, savory meats and cheeses, and tangy dressing makes it a reliable favorite for quick lunches, meal prep, and casual dinners. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can easily master this recipe and adapt it to your taste. Enjoy the fresh, bold flavors of the Mediterranean any day of the week.