Italian Chopped Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Chopped Salad is packed with bold, vibrant flavors from a variety of fresh vegetables, savory Italian meats and cheeses, and a tangy homemade Italian dressing. The combination of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and zesty salami is perfectly balanced, while the pepperoncini adds a delightful kick. Whether you’re looking for a light, refreshing summer meal or a hearty side dish, this salad will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 head Iceberg Lettuce (about 3 cups)

• 1 head Romaine Lettuce (about 3 to 4 cups)

• 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes (or 1 cup of diced)

• 1 English Cucumber (sliced)

• 8 ounces Fresh Mozzarella (cut into bite-size pieces)

• 1/4 to 1/2 lb Salami (cut into bite-size pieces)

• 4 ounces Provolone Cheese (cut into bite-size pieces)

• 1 (14-ounce) can Chickpeas (drained and rinsed)

• 2 Tablespoons Pepperoncinis (finely diced)

• 1/4 Red Onion (sliced, optional)

• Shaved Parmesan Cheese

Homemade Italian Dressing:

• 1/2 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

• 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar

• 1 Garlic Clove (minced)

• 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon Mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon each Salt and Pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by chopping the iceberg and romaine lettuce into small, bite-sized pieces. Slice the tomatoes, cucumbers, mozzarella, provolone, and salami. Dice the pepperoncini peppers finely and slice the red onion, if desired. Set the ingredients aside.

2. Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas. Optional: Toss the chickpeas with 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon basil, 1/4 teaspoon oregano, and optional red chili flakes to add more flavor.

3. For the homemade dressing, combine extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed. For a smoother texture, you can blend the dressing with an immersion blender or a regular blender.

4. When ready to serve, toss all the prepared ingredients together in a large salad bowl. Drizzle the homemade dressing over the top and toss to coat evenly.

5. Garnish with shaved or grated parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and freshly cracked ground pepper for extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Add grilled chicken, turkey, or even crispy bacon for extra protein.

• Vegetarian: Skip the salami and add extra vegetables, such as bell peppers or olives, for a delicious meatless version.

• Spicy: For a spicier kick, use spicy pepperoncini or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing.

• Cheese Variety: Try adding different cheeses such as feta, goat cheese, or a sharper cheese like Asiago.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you plan on storing leftovers, keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. For best results, add the cheese and dressing just before serving.

FAQs

1. How do I make this salad spicier?

You can increase the amount of pepperoncini or add some red chili flakes to the dressing for an extra spicy kick.

2. Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Yes, you can swap out iceberg or romaine lettuce for other crisp greens like butter lettuce or mixed greens. Just make sure the lettuce is fresh and crunchy.

3. What other meats can I use in this salad?

If you’re not a fan of salami, you can substitute it with other Italian cold cuts such as ham, capicola, or even pepperoni.

4. Can I use canned mozzarella instead of fresh mozzarella?

Fresh mozzarella is recommended for its creamy texture and mild flavor, but you can use shredded mozzarella in a pinch if you prefer.

5. How can I make the dressing creamier?

For a creamier dressing, you can whisk in some mayonnaise or Greek yogurt along with the olive oil and vinegar.

6. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! You can add additional vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or radishes to suit your taste.

7. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the ingredients of the salami, cheese, and any pre-made items to ensure they are gluten-free.

8. How long will the homemade dressing last in the fridge?

The dressing will last up to one week in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Always give it a good shake before using it again.

9. Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can prep the ingredients in advance but don’t toss the salad with the dressing until just before serving. This will prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

10. What other cheeses can I use in this recipe?

You can substitute provolone and mozzarella with other mild cheeses such as fontina, gouda, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Italian Chopped Salad is a delicious, customizable, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side or as a main meal, the combination of fresh vegetables, savory Italian meats, and creamy cheese makes for a satisfying and flavorful salad. The homemade Italian dressing ties everything together, adding that extra layer of tangy goodness. Enjoy this vibrant dish on warm days or whenever you’re craving something fresh and full of flavor!