Description
Antipasto Salad
Ingredients
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1/2 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
1/2 cup salami slices (folded)
1/2 cup pepperoni slices (folded)
1/2 cup green olives
1/2 cup Kalamata olives
1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
1/2 cup artichoke hearts (optional, quartered)
1/2 cup provolone or Parmesan cheese (sliced or shaved)
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
For the Dressing:
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, salami, pepperoni, olives, red onion, artichoke hearts, and cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect Antipasto Salad every time. First, prepare all your ingredients: halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, quarter the artichoke hearts (if using), and slice or shave the provolone/Parmesan. Fold the salami and pepperoni slices into quarters for easy eating. Next, make the dressing by vigorously whisking the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until fully emulsified. In your large serving bowl, gently combine all the prepared salad ingredients, except the basil. Drizzle the dressing over the top. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, toss the salad gently but thoroughly to ensure every component is lightly coated with dressing without crushing the delicate ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines in multiple settings. Serve it as a stunning centerpiece appetizer on a large platter for a party. For a heartier meal, present it over a bed of crisp romaine lettuce or alongside toasted crusty bread for dipping. It also pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a protein-packed dinner. To make it ahead, combine all dry ingredients and store the dressing separately, tossing just before serving to maintain optimal texture.
How-to Summary
To summarize, creating an Antipasto Salad involves three key stages: 1) Prep all meats, cheeses, and vegetables. 2) Whisk the simple Italian dressing until unified. 3) Gently combine everything in a large bowl, toss with dressing, and garnish with fresh basil. The entire process takes just 15 minutes for a fresh, flavorful result.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but for best results, store the dressed salad and dressing separately. Combine up to 2 hours before serving; the onions and olives will marinate slightly, enhancing the flavor.
What are good vegetarian substitutes for the meats? Omit the salami and pepperoni and add roasted red peppers, marinated mushrooms, chickpeas, or extra artichoke hearts for substance.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the tomatoes and greens will soften, but the flavors will remain delicious.
Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely. Fresh mozzarella pearls, creamy burrata, sharp Asiago, or even crumbled feta are excellent alternatives that fit the Mediterranean theme.
Is there a substitute for red wine vinegar in the dressing? Yes, balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used. Balsamic will add a sweeter, deeper note, while white wine vinegar offers a similar tang.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for a superior salad. First, do not overdress the salad; start with half the dressing, toss, and add more as needed to prevent a soggy result. Second, do not skip the step of whisking the dressing vigorously; proper emulsification ensures the oil and vinegar don’t separate immediately. Third, avoid cutting ingredients too large; uniform, bite-sized pieces ensure a perfect forkful in every bite. Finally, do not add the dressing too far in advance, as the acid will wilt the fresh ingredients.
Conclusion
This Antipasto Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a vibrant, customizable celebration of Italian flavors that comes together in minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, impressive entertaining, or meal prep, its combination of savory meats, creamy cheeses, and tangy dressing is always a crowd-pleaser. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common mistakes, you can effortlessly create a fresh, flavorful dish that transports you straight to the Mediterranean.