Italian Chopped Salad – A Flavor-Packed Mediterranean Classic
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a well-composed chopped salad. When it comes to bold flavors and vibrant textures, few salads compare to the Italian Chopped Salad. This dish is a hearty, colorful mix of crisp vegetables, rich cheeses, savory meats, and tangy dressing, all finely chopped and tossed together for the perfect bite in every forkful.
Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish, a standout starter, or a satisfying main course, this Italian chopped salad brings everything to the table. Inspired by the classic flavors of Italy, it’s packed with Mediterranean ingredients that create a delicious harmony of salty, tangy, crunchy, and creamy textures.
Ingredients
For the Salad Base:
- 6 cups crisp romaine or iceberg lettuce, finely chopped
- 1 cup ripe tomatoes, diced (use cherry or Roma tomatoes for best flavor)
- 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and roughly chopped
- ½ cup black or Kalamata olives, whole or halved
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup pepperoncini (mild pickled peppers), thinly sliced
For the Cheese and Protein:
- ½ cup provolone cheese, chopped into small cubes
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- ½ cup salami, chopped
- ½ cup pepperoni, chopped or sliced into strips
For Fresh Herb Flavor:
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup high-quality Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing and drying all fresh vegetables. Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and dice or slice all other vegetables and meats according to the ingredient list. For an extra crisp salad, chill the chopped lettuce in the refrigerator before assembling.
2. Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, layer the chopped lettuce as your base. Then add in the tomatoes, artichoke hearts, olives, red onion, and pepperoncini. Scatter the provolone cubes and mozzarella halves across the top, followed by the salami and pepperoni. Sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
3. Dress and Toss
Drizzle the Italian dressing evenly over the top of the salad. Using salad tongs or clean hands, toss everything gently until all ingredients are well coated in dressing and evenly distributed.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the salad immediately while the ingredients are fresh and crisp. This salad pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread, garlic knots, or a bowl of warm minestrone soup. It can also be served as a main dish for lunch or a light dinner.
Optional Additions
- Chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian protein boost
- Grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling main course
- Shaved Parmesan or crumbled feta for additional cheese variety
- Sun-dried tomatoes for an intense, tangy kick
Make It Ahead
This salad can be prepped in advance by chopping and storing each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Combine everything and add the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh and crunchy.
Nutritional Benefits
This Italian Chopped Salad is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. You’ll get fiber from the vegetables, healthy fats from the olives and cheese, and protein from the meats and mozzarella. It’s a well-rounded dish that fits beautifully into a balanced Mediterranean-style diet.
Serving Size and Prep Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: Serves 4 as a main course or 6–8 as a side.