The Italian Chopped Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together a medley of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a delicious homemade Italian dressing. This salad is perfect for a healthy lunch or as a colorful side for your summer barbecues.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced
1 cup radishes, sliced
1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed (optional)
1 cup diced salami or pepperoni (optional)
1/2 cup mozzarella balls (optional)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables: Rinse and chop all fresh vegetables as specified in the ingredient list.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, radishes, red onion, and any proteins you are using.
Add Herbs: Sprinkle in the chopped parsley and basil over the vegetable mixture.
Toss and Dress: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together.
Rest and Serve: Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving.
