Italian-Style Chopped Salad

Name: Italian-Style Chopped Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups romaine lettuce (chopped); 1 cup radicchio (chopped); 1 cup cucumber (diced); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1/2 cup red bell pepper (diced); 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped); 1/4 cup black olives (sliced); 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic (minced); 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

20 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

A vibrant and refreshing Italian-style chopped salad packed with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing, perfect as a side dish or a light meal.

Prep

20 min

Total

20 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Italian-style chopped salad is a staple in many households and restaurants, celebrated for its vibrant mix of fresh vegetables and bold flavours. This salad is not only visually appealing but also incredibly versatile, making it a great accompaniment to a variety of dishes or a stand-alone meal. The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. With a base of crisp lettuce and a medley of colourful vegetables, it’s a healthy choice that's as satisfying as it is nourishing. The tangy and zesty dressing ties everything together, providing a burst of flavour in every bite.

Instructions

Prepare the vegetables

Wash and dry all vegetables thoroughly. Chop the romaine lettuce and radicchio into bite-sized pieces. Dice the cucumber and red bell pepper. Halve the cherry tomatoes and finely chop the red onion.

Pro tip: Use a salad spinner to ensure the greens are completely dry.

Mix the salad

In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, radicchio, cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and black olives.

Pro tip: For even distribution of ingredients, toss the salad with your hands.

Prepare the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Pro tip: Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Dress the salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Pro tip: Add the dressing gradually to avoid overdressing the salad.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Serve immediately.

Pro tip: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flavour.

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Tips & Tricks

Use the freshest vegetables you can find for the best flavour and texture.
Chop ingredients uniformly for a visually appealing presentation.
Prepare the dressing ahead of time to let the flavours meld.
Customize by adding your favourite Italian cheeses or cured meats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be added for extra protein.

How long can I store this salad?

The salad can be stored, undressed, in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

What can I substitute for red wine vinegar?

You can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.

What other vegetables can I add?

You can add artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for variety.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Italian-style chopped salad alongside grilled meats, pastas, or even as a refreshing side to a hearty soup. It's also wonderful paired with a crusty loaf of bread and a glass of chilled white wine. To make ahead, chop all the vegetables and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Mix the dressing just before serving to maintain the salad's crispness. Leftovers can be stored for up to 2 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.