Description
Mediterranean flavors dance through this Italian chop-chop salad, blending crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and robust herbs. Refreshing ingredients create a quick, zesty lunch that brings Italian countryside charm right to your plate.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup (237 ml) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup (237 ml) cucumber, diced
- 1 cup (237 ml) mozzarella cheese, diced
Protein and Additional Savory Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (118 ml) red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup (118 ml) black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup (118 ml) salami, chopped
- 1/4 cup (59 ml) pepperoncini, sliced
Seasoning and Garnish:
- 1/4 cup (59 ml) parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup (59 ml) fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Assemble a vibrant medley of crisp romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, sharp red onion, cool cucumber, briny olives, creamy mozzarella, savory salami, tangy pepperoncini, and sharp parmesan cheese in a spacious mixing vessel.
- Craft a zesty vinaigrette by whisking together robust olive oil, tangy red wine vinegar, pungent Dijon mustard, aromatic minced garlic, fragrant dried oregano, and a precise balance of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Gently cascade the prepared dressing over the colorful ingredient ensemble, using delicate folding motions to ensure each component is evenly coated and harmoniously blended.
- Crown the salad with delicate, torn fresh basil leaves, creating a final aromatic flourish that elevates the dish’s visual and flavor profile.
- Present the Italian chop-chop salad immediately to preserve its crisp texture and vibrant character, inviting diners to enjoy the symphony of Mediterranean flavors.
Notes
- Choose crisp, fresh romaine for the best crunch and vibrant green color.
- Slice ingredients uniformly to ensure every bite has a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Chill ingredients beforehand to keep the salad refreshingly cool and maintain ingredient integrity.
- Substitute salami with grilled chicken or tofu for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version that still packs protein.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Appetizer
- Method: None
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg