Escape the summer heat with this vibrant and refreshing Italian Chopped Salad! Packed with the bright flavors of sun-ripened tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and salty olives, this salad is a delightful alternative to heavier summer meals. It's the perfect side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or a light lunch on a hot afternoon. The satisfying crunch of the vegetables combined with the creamy dressing creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. This recipe is incredibly versatile; feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking and add your favorite proteins or cheeses.
This easy-to-follow recipe uses readily available ingredients and requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for even the busiest weeknights. Forget complicated salad preparations; this chopped salad comes together quickly and effortlessly. Ready to create this delicious summer staple? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and make this amazing Italian Chopped Salad!
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- Hearts of Roma lettuce: 2 bags
- Chopped salami: 1 package
- Cucumber: 1, diced
- Provolone cheese: amount to taste, diced
- Pepperonis: amount to taste, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Marinated mozzarella balls: amount to taste
- White onion: 1, diced
- Homemade vinaigrette: amount to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Base and Protein
- Start with two bags of Hearts of Roma lettuce in a large bowl.
- Add a package of chopped salami.
- Add diced pepperonis.
- Add more diced pepperonis (optional).
Step 2. Add Vegetables and Cheese
- Add one diced cucumber.
- Add diced provolone cheese.
- Add one diced red bell pepper.
- Add marinated mozzarella balls.
- Add one diced white onion.
Step 3. Dress the Salad
- Drizzle with homemade vinaigrette.
Step 4. Toss and Serve
- Toss the salad gently to combine.
Read more: Sicilian Penne with Cauliflower: A Flavorful Mediterranean Dish
Tips
- You can adjust the amount of each ingredient to your liking.
- This salad is perfect for a hot summer day.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-600
- Fat: 25-40g
- Carbs: 20-35g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It's best to prepare the dressing separately and add it just before serving to prevent the vegetables from getting soggy. You can chop the vegetables a few hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
2. What can I substitute for the salami?
Feel free to use other cured meats like prosciutto, capicola, or even grilled chicken or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. The key is to add something savory to balance the flavors.
This vibrant Italian chopped salad is the perfect summer dish, guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Its simplicity and delicious flavor profile make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy this refreshing and satisfying salad!