Italian Chopped Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Chopped Salad is not only quick and easy to make, but it also bursts with flavor. The crunchy iceberg lettuce and radicchio provide the perfect base, while the addition of chickpeas, mozzarella, provolone, and pepperoncini adds a rich, satisfying bite. The lemon vinaigrette, with its fresh citrus and herbaceous notes, ties everything together beautifully. Plus, it’s completely customizable, so you can adapt it to suit your taste!

Ingredients

For the Lemon Vinaigrette:

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
½ shallot, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
1 tablespoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper

For the Salad:

1 small head iceberg lettuce
1 head radicchio
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
4 ounces fresh pearl mozzarella, drained
4 ounces provolone cheese, diced
5 pepperoncini, stemmed and sliced
1 teaspoon oregano, for garnish
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, shallot, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables: Cut the iceberg lettuce in half through the core, then cut out the core. Slice the lettuce lengthwise into ¼-inch strips. Repeat with the radicchio.

3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, radicchio, tomatoes, chickpeas, mozzarella, provolone, and pepperoncini. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to coat. Season with salt and pepper, then toss again.

4. Serve: Sprinkle with extra oregano and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6 people and takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare.

Variations

• Add protein: For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even cubed Genoa salami if you’re not making it vegetarian.

• Use different cheeses: You can swap out mozzarella and provolone for other cheeses like feta or parmesan for a different flavor profile.

• Switch up the veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives to your salad for additional crunch and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the dressing can wilt the lettuce over time. However, if you need to store leftovers, keep the dressing separate from the salad. Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The dressing can be kept in a separate jar for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to keep the veggies crisp.

2. Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Yes! You can substitute iceberg with romaine, butter lettuce, or any leafy greens you prefer.

3. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any gluten-based ingredients.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add cucumbers, bell peppers, or even olives for more variety and flavor.

5. Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

6. How can I make this salad vegan?

To make the salad vegan, simply omit the mozzarella and provolone cheese, or swap them for a plant-based cheese alternative.

7. What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs well with pizza, pasta, grilled meats, or as a standalone light meal.

8. How can I adjust the acidity of the vinaigrette?

If you prefer a milder vinaigrette, reduce the amount of vinegar and lemon juice and increase the olive oil.

9. Can I add nuts or seeds for extra crunch?

Yes, you can add roasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pine nuts for added texture.

10. How do I make this salad spicier?

Add extra pepperoncini or a few dashes of red pepper flakes to the dressing to give it a spicy kick.

Conclusion

This Italian Chopped Salad is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're serving it as a side or making it the star of the meal, it's sure to impress. With its crisp vegetables, creamy cheeses, and tangy dressing, it offers a refreshing and satisfying experience every time.

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