Italian Chopped Salad

This Italian Chopped Salad is the ultimate combination of crunchy lettuce, bold meats, creamy cheeses, crisp vegetables, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing. Bursting with color and flavor, it’s perfect as a hearty summer meal or a standout side dish for your next BBQ or potluck. Tossed and chopped for convenience, every bite is packed with classic Italian goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavor-packed: Meats, cheeses, and homemade dressing bring bold, satisfying flavor.
  • Meal-worthy salad: High in protein and fiber, great as a main course.
  • Perfect for gatherings: Feeds a crowd and holds up well at room temperature.
  • Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 1 head Iceberg lettuce (about 3 cups, chopped)
  • 1 head Romaine lettuce (about 3–4 cups, chopped)
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved, or 1 cup diced)
  • 1 English cucumber, sliced
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1/4–1/2 lb salami, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 4 oz provolone cheese, cubed
  • 1 (14 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tbsp pepperoncini, finely diced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • Shaved Parmesan cheese, for topping

For the Italian Dressing

  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Optional Chickpea Seasoning

For extra flavor, toss chickpeas with:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp dried basil
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Chop ingredients: Cut lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, mozzarella, provolone, and salami into bite-sized pieces. Finely dice the pepperoncinis and slice red onion if using. Set aside.
  2. Prepare chickpeas (optional): Drain and rinse chickpeas. If desired, season with olive oil, basil, oregano, and chili flakes.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, mustard, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified.
  4. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine all chopped salad ingredients and chickpeas. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Add dressing: Pour dressing over the salad and toss again to coat everything evenly.
  6. Serve: Top with shaved Parmesan and serve immediately. This salad is also great chilled!

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Per Serving)

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian

Recipe Tips & Variations

  • Make it vegetarian: Skip the salami or replace it with marinated artichokes or roasted red peppers.
  • Add crunch: Toss in croutons or toasted pine nuts for texture.
  • Make it ahead: Chop and store ingredients separately. Combine and dress just before serving.
  • Don’t skip the pepperoncini: Adds tangy, zesty flavor that makes this salad pop!

Keywords

chopped salad, italian chopped salad, italian salad, italian chop salad, antipasto salad, hearty summer salad, easy italian salad

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