Description
1 head romaine lettuce, finely chopped
1/2 head radicchio, finely chopped
1/2 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup Genoa salami, julienned
1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup pepperoncini, sliced
Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine, radicchio, chickpeas, salami, mozzarella, Parmesan, cherry tomatoes, and pepperoncini.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
Let sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 0 minutes Total Time: 10 minutes Kcal: 320 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect salad every time.
- Chop the Greens: Finely chop the romaine lettuce and radicchio. Ensure pieces are bite-sized for easy eating.
- Prepare Ingredients: Julienne the Genoa salami, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the pepperoncini, and drain and rinse the chickpeas.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In your largest mixing bowl, add the romaine, radicchio, chickpeas, salami, mozzarella, Parmesan, tomatoes, and pepperoncini.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, and minced garlic until fully emulsified. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Toss and Rest: Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, toss thoroughly until every ingredient is lightly coated. Let the salad sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty salad is versatile. For a complete meal, serve it with warm, crusty bread or garlic breadsticks. It pairs wonderfully with a light soup like minestrone or a classic tomato basil. To turn it into a main course for two, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top. For a party, serve it in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors.
How-to Summary
Quickly prepare a Chopped Italian Antipasto Salad by combining chopped romaine, radicchio, chickpeas, Genoa salami, cheeses, tomatoes, and pepperoncini. Whisk together a simple garlic-oregano vinaigrette, toss with the salad, and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but for best texture, keep the dressing separate and chop the greens no more than a few hours in advance. Combine and toss just before serving.
What can I use instead of radicchio? Radicchio adds a bitter note. You can substitute with more romaine, red cabbage, or even arugula for a different peppery flavor.
Is there a substitute for Genoa salami? Absolutely. Any hard salami, soppressata, or even diced pepperoni will work well. For a non-pork option, try a sliced chicken or turkey sausage.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The greens will wilt slightly but will still be tasty.
Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, simply omit the salami. You could add roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or sliced olives to boost the flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying Greens: Ensure your chopped romaine and radicchio are thoroughly dried after washing. Excess water will dilute the dressing.
- Skipping the Resting Time: The 5-minute rest after tossing is crucial for the flavors to combine and the greens to slightly soften.
- Over-dressing: Add the dressing gradually. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out. The salad should be coated, not swimming.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: For the best flavor, grate your own Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture and melting.
Conclusion
This Chopped Italian Antipasto Salad is a perfect blend of textures and bold flavors, combining savory meats, creamy cheeses, and a zesty homemade dressing. It’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight dinner or a standout dish for gatherings. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a restaurant-quality salad right at home. Enjoy this taste of Italy in every crunchy, flavorful bite.
