Description
Big Yummy Italian Salad is a hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired salad packed with fresh crisp lettuces, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, tangy olives, pepperoncini, and a blend of shredded mozzarella and shaved Parmesan cheeses. Salami and pepperoni add savory depth, while a zesty homemade Italian dressing made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and herbs ties all the ingredients together. This no-cook salad is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal that comes together in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 2 cups chopped iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons
- 1/2 cup salami, sliced into strips
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, halved
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and sugar until well combined and slightly emulsified. This dressing will add a bright, tangy flavor that complements the salad ingredients.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large serving bowl, add the chopped romaine and iceberg lettuces, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, thinly sliced red onions, black olives, pepperoncini slices, shredded mozzarella, shaved Parmesan, croutons, salami strips, and halved pepperoni slices. Toss gently to mix all the components evenly.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp. Toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing. Serve immediately for the freshest taste and best texture.
Notes
- For a lighter version, omit the salami and pepperoni and add grilled chicken instead for lean protein.
- Chill the salad bowl beforehand to keep the salad extra crisp when serving.
- The dressing can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
