Italian Chopped Salad | SaraTasty

Italian Chopped Salad

This Italian Chopped Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish that combines crisp greens, fresh vegetables, tangy pepperoncini, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Inspired by classic Italian flavors, it’s perfect as a standalone meal or a delightful side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bursting with Flavor: A mix of fresh vegetables, cheeses, and a tangy dressing ensures every bite is packed with taste.
  • Versatile Meal: Enjoy it on its own for a light lunch or pair it with your favorite main dishes.
  • Quick and Easy: With simple preparation, this salad comes together in minutes.
  • Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
  • Nutritious: Loaded with fresh produce and protein-rich chickpeas, it’s a healthy addition to any meal.

Ingredients

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

  • For the Salad:

    • Iceberg lettuce
    • Radicchio
    • Red onion
    • Cherry tomatoes
    • Chickpeas
    • Pearl mozzarella
    • Provolone cheese
    • Pepperoncini
  • For the Lemon Vinaigrette:

    • Lemon juice
    • Red wine vinegar
    • Shallot
    • Garlic
    • Dried oregano
    • Extra-virgin olive oil
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, red wine vinegar, finely chopped shallot, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Gradually add extra-virgin olive oil while whisking until emulsified. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  2. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine chopped iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced radicchio, sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, drained and rinsed chickpeas, pearl mozzarella, diced provolone cheese, and sliced pepperoncini.
  3. Toss Together: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine, ensuring an even coating.
  4. Serve: Transfer to serving plates and enjoy immediately.

Servings and Timing

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 6

Variations

  • Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, salami, or tuna for a heartier meal.
  • Vegetarian Twist: Replace meats with roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for added depth.
  • Cheese Options: Swap provolone with feta or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
  • Herb Enhancements: Fresh basil or parsley can be added for extra freshness.
  • Crunch Factor: Top with croutons or toasted nuts for added texture.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Dressing Storage: Keep extra dressing separately in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before use.
  • Note: For optimal freshness, it’s best to dress the salad just before serving.

FAQs

What can I use instead of iceberg lettuce?

Romaine lettuce or a mix of spring greens can be great substitutes, offering a different texture and flavor.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the lemon vinaigrette can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.

How can I make this salad vegan?

Omit the cheeses or replace them with plant-based alternatives, and ensure the dressing ingredients are vegan-friendly.

What other vegetables can I add?

Cucumbers, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts make excellent additions to this salad.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feta, Parmesan, or even blue cheese can be used to vary the flavor.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

Dress the salad just before serving and ensure any added ingredients like roasted chickpeas or croutons are added at the last minute.

What can I serve with this salad?

It pairs well with crusty bread, pasta dishes, or grilled proteins like chicken or fish.

Can I add nuts or seeds?

Yes, toasted pine nuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds can add a delightful crunch.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep any undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Store the dressing separately and combine just before eating.

Conclusion

This Italian Chopped Salad is a delightful medley of flavors and textures, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a complement to your favorite dishes, its fresh ingredients and zesty dressing are sure to impress. Give it a try and savor the taste of Italy in every bite!

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Italian Chopped Salad

Italian Chopped Salad


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  • Author: sara
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Italian Chopped Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish, packed with crisp greens, colorful vegetables, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette. Inspired by classic Italian flavors, it’s perfect as a standalone meal or a side dish for any occasion.


Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • Iceberg lettuce, chopped
  • Radicchio, thinly sliced
  • Red onion, thinly sliced
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • Pearl mozzarella, halved
  • Provolone cheese, diced
  • Pepperoncini, sliced

For the Lemon Vinaigrette:

  • Lemon juice
  • Red wine vinegar
  • Shallot, finely chopped
  • Garlic, minced
  • Dried oregano
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dressing:

    • In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, red wine vinegar, shallot, garlic, and oregano.
    • Slowly add olive oil, whisking until emulsified.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Assemble the Salad:

    • In a large bowl, combine chopped iceberg lettuce, radicchio, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and chickpeas.
    • Add mozzarella, provolone cheese, and pepperoncini.
  • Toss Together:

    • Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to combine, ensuring an even coating of dressing.
  • Serve:

    • Transfer to serving plates and enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, salami, or tuna for a heartier meal.
  • Vegetarian Twist: Replace meats with roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Cheese Options: Swap provolone with feta or Parmesan.
  • Herb Enhancements: Add fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor.
  • Crunch Factor: Top with croutons or toasted nuts for texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian
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