Mega Italian Salad Recipe

Mega Italian Salad Recipe

This vibrant Italian salad is bursting with fresh vegetables, tangy flavors, and hearty textures. Perfect as a main dish or a flavorful side, it’s tossed with a zesty Italian dressing that ties everything together beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 6 cups (about 200g) mixed greens (romaine, arugula, or spinach)
• 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup (100g) sliced cucumbers
• 1/2 cup (75g) thinly sliced red onion
• 1 cup (150g) marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1/2 cup (75g) sliced black or green olives
• 1/2 cup (75g) roasted red peppers, sliced
• 1/2 cup (50g) shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup (25g) pepperoncini or banana peppers, sliced
• 1/2 cup (75g) cubed mozzarella, provolone, or fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
• 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup (75g) crispy croutons (optional)
• 1/4 cup (25g) salami or prosciutto slices, chopped (optional, for a non-vegetarian version)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing:

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Set aside.

2. Assemble the Salad:

1. In a large salad bowl, layer the greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, artichoke hearts, olives, roasted red peppers, shredded carrots, and pepperoncini.
2. Top with mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and salami or prosciutto if using.

3. Toss and Serve:

1. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine.
2. Garnish with additional Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper, if desired.

Tips

• Customization: Add chickpeas, white beans, or grilled chicken for extra protein.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble the salad without the dressing and store it in the refrigerator. Add the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.
• Storage: Store leftover salad and dressing separately for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

This Mega Italian Salad is a fresh, delicious, and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the bold flavors and crisp textures! 🥗🍅