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Italian Chopped Salad

A hearty mix of fresh veggies, savory meats, and zesty cheeses, this Italian Chopped Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that can be prepared in just 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish, Salad
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad Base
  • 10 ounces Romaine lettuce, chopped for a refreshing crunch
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved bursting with sweetness
  • 1 piece cucumber, diced for a hydrating crunch
  • 1/2 medium red onion, finely chopped to add a bite
  • 1 piece bell pepper, diced for a sweet crunch
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved for a Mediterranean twist
Proteins and Cheeses
  • 1 cup salami or pepperoni, diced to pack in the flavor
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella balls, halved for creaminess
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory note
Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Italian dressing store-bought or homemade
Optional Garnishes
  • Fresh herbs like basil or parsley for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Make sure your Romaine is well-rinsed and dried to prevent sogginess.
Mixing Ingredients
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, olives, and salami or pepperoni.
  2. Gently fold in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, ensuring an even distribution.
Dressing and Serving
  1. Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well-coated.
  2. Be sure to taste the salad and adjust salt and pepper if needed. If your salad is too thick, add a splash of vinegar to lighten it up.
  3. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh herbs.

Notes

For a tangy twist, substitute lemon juice with lime juice. Use a light dressing or a simple olive oil and vinegar mix for a healthier option. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.