Italian Chopped Salad: A Rainbow of Mediterranean Flavors
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| Italian Chopped Salad: A Rainbow of Mediterranean Flavors |
The secret to an exceptional Italian chopped salad lies in the
uniformity of your cuts and the quality of your ingredients. Take your
time with the prep work, and you'll be rewarded with a salad that's both
visually stunning and deliciously satisfying.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
• Every bite brings a perfect balance of textures and tastes
• Makes an impressive presentation for gatherings
• Can be prepped ahead for easy entertaining
• Stays crisp and fresh longer than traditional tossed salads
Key Ingredients
• Romaine lettuce: Creates a crisp, refreshing foundation
• Radicchio: Adds beautiful color and pleasant bitter notes
• Italian meats: Salami and pepperoni provide rich, savory depth
• Fresh mozzarella: Brings creamy, milky sweetness
• Pepperoncini: Delivers tangy brightness and gentle heat
• Chickpeas: Adds protein and authentic Italian character
The Perfect Vinaigrette
• Extra virgin olive oil: The backbone of any Italian dressing
• Red wine vinegar: Provides classic tangy bite
• Fresh garlic: Creates aromatic depth
• Dried oregano: Essential for authentic Italian flavor
• Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing for perfect coating
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Greens
Start by washing romaine and radicchio thoroughly, then spin or pat completely dry. This crucial step ensures your dressing will cling properly instead of sliding off wet leaves. Chop into uniform 1-inch pieces – precision here creates the signature chopped salad texture and ensures every bite has the perfect balance of ingredients.
2. Prep Supporting Players
Halve cherry tomatoes, letting them drain cut-side down on paper towels to prevent excess liquid. Thinly slice red onions and soak in ice water for 10 minutes to remove harsh bite while maintaining crispness. Dice mozzarella and meats into pieces similar in size to the lettuce for ideal bite composition.
3. Create the Vinaigrette
In a mason jar, combine:
• 1/2 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon each salt and freshly ground pepper
Shake vigorously until emulsified.
4. Assembly Method
Layer ingredients in a large bowl in this order:
- Chopped romaine and radicchio
- Drained tomatoes and onions
- Diced meats and cheese
- Chickpeas and pepperoncini
This layering technique prevents delicate ingredients from being crushed.
5. Final Touches
Just before serving, drizzle with about half the vinaigrette. Toss gently but thoroughly using wooden spoons or your clean hands. Taste and add more dressing as needed. Finish with a fresh grind of black pepper.
Pro Tips
• Prep all ingredients before beginning assembly
• Keep components refrigerated until the last minute
• Use a sharp knife to prevent bruising the greens
• Store extra dressing separately for up to a week
Make It Your Own
Consider these traditional Italian add-ins:
- Marinated artichoke hearts
- Thinly sliced celery for extra crunch
- Fresh basil leaves
- Toasted pine nuts
- Oil-packed tuna for a protein boost
Perfect Pairings
Serve alongside crusty ciabatta bread and a glass of crisp Italian white wine. This salad complements pasta dishes beautifully or stands alone as a light meal.
Storage Tips
Store undressed components separately in airtight containers. The prepped ingredients will stay fresh for 2-3 days, making this perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
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