This bright and colorful Italian Chopped Salad is packed with fresh veggies like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers, all mixed with tasty olives and cheese. It’s so crunchy and refreshing!
You can whip it up in no time—just chop, mix, and eat! I love adding my favorite dressing and enjoying it with a big smile. Perfect for hot days or when I want something light!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce: This crunchy green is perfect for salads. If you can’t find romaine, try using iceberg or spinach for a different flavor and texture.
Radicchio: It adds a lovely bitterness and color. If radicchio is unavailable, consider using endive or purple cabbage as a substitute.
Cherry Tomatoes: These bring sweetness and juiciness. If you have larger tomatoes on hand, just chop them into bite-sized pieces. Sun-dried tomatoes could also add a unique taste.
Cucumber: A fresh, crispy element. You can swap this for zucchini or even bell peppers if you prefer.
Chickpeas: Packed with protein, they help make the salad filling. You could use black beans or kidney beans as an alternative if you want a different flavor.
Cheeses: Fresh mozzarella is delightful, but you can replace it with feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Parmesan is key for finishing, but Pecorino is a tasty alternative.
Olive Oil & Red Wine Vinegar: They make the dressing zing. For a change, try balsamic vinegar or lemon juice along with any neutral oil.
How Do I Make the Dressing Stand Out?
The dressing is what ties the salad together, so it’s key to get it just right. Here’s how to make a flavorful dressing:
- Use high-quality olive oil for richness.
- When mixing, gradually whisk in the oil to emulsify it with the vinegar.
- Add salt and pepper to taste; these bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
For more flavor, feel free to add minced garlic, a pinch of sugar for sweetness, or even a dash of Italian seasoning to enhance that Mediterranean vibe.
How to Make an Italian Chopped Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup radicchio, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup mixed olives (e.g., black and green), pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini, sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, diced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Italian Chopped Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. Perfect for a quick meal or a side dish at gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Base:
In a large bowl, start by combining the chopped romaine lettuce and radicchio. These greens will provide a crunchy and colorful base for your salad.
2. Add the Veggies and Beans:
Next, toss in the cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, drained chickpeas, sliced olives, and pepperoncini. Then, add in the diced mozzarella cheese. This mix of fresh ingredients gives your salad great flavor and texture.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This dressing will bring all your ingredients together nicely.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad in the large bowl and toss well to ensure all the ingredients are coated. This step is key to blending all those delicious flavors!
5. Add the Finishing Touch:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad. Give it another gentle toss to mix the cheese in without breaking everything apart.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Italian Chopped Salad is ready to enjoy! You can serve it immediately, or if you like, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Either way, it’s a refreshing dish that’s sure to please!
Can I Substitute the Lettuce with Other Greens?
Absolutely! If you don’t have romaine or radicchio, you can use any other leafy greens like spinach, arugula, or kale. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces. Each type of green will bring a different flavor and texture to your salad, so feel free to experiment!
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. If you’re prepping it ahead of time, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent wilting.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, making this salad vegan is easy! Simply omit the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese or substitute them with vegan cheese alternatives. You can also add extra chickpeas or nuts for added protein and texture!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding ingredients like diced avocado, roasted red peppers, or even some toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley also add a refreshing touch!
