Description
A fresh and vibrant Italian Chopped Salad featuring crisp romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, savory salami, and creamy mozzarella, tossed with a simple olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing. Perfect as a light meal or a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Base
- 4 cups chopped romaine
- 1/2 cup peeled English cucumber, cubed
- 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- Sliced red onion, to taste
Dressing & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 1/2 roasted red pepper (in water, chopped)
- 1 ounce Genoa salami, sliced
- 6 tablespoons shredded part-skim mozzarella
Instructions
- Prepare the salad base: In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, peeled and cubed English cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. This mix forms the crisp foundation of the Italian chopped salad.
- Add dressing and season: Drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar over the salad base. Toss everything gently to ensure the ingredients are evenly coated. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to your taste for balanced flavor.
- Add toppings: Top the dressed salad with the chopped roasted red pepper, sliced Genoa salami, and shredded part-skim mozzarella. These toppings add a savory and creamy dimension to the salad, enhancing its Italian flair.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the Genoa salami and add extra mozzarella or chickpeas for protein.
- Make sure to use part-skim mozzarella for a lighter cheese option.
- The salad is best served fresh but can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated to let flavors meld.
- Adjust the olive oil and vinegar quantities based on your dressing preference.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano for enhanced Italian flavor.
