Description
This Italian chopped salad is a fresh, flavorful mix of crisp greens, savory meats, creamy cheese, and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect as a main dish or a side for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2 cups radicchio, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup salami, chopped
- 1/2 cup provolone cheese, diced
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup croutons (optional, for added crunch)
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (or sugar)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Optional Additions and Substitutions
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, tuna, or hard-boiled eggs.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap salami for extra chickpeas or marinated tofu.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether.
- Gluten-Free: Skip the croutons or use gluten-free alternatives.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash and dry the romaine lettuce and radicchio thoroughly. Chop them into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion into thin, even pieces.
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas well.
- Cut the salami and provolone cheese into small cubes.
- Slice the pepperoncini peppers and black olives into rings for added texture.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For a creamier version, whisk in a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, radicchio, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, chickpeas, salami, provolone, pepperoncini, and black olives.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to ensure every bite is coated with flavor.
Step 4: Add Final Touches
- Sprinkle croutons on top for extra crunch.
- Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately as a main dish or a side salad.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours (note: croutons may soften).
Notes
This nutrient-packed salad is perfect for meal prep, light lunches, or serving alongside your favorite Italian dishes. Enjoy its bold flavors and satisfying crunch!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Chopped, Tossed
- Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Italian chopped salad, chopped salad recipe, healthy Italian salad