Big Classic Italian Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Big Classic Italian Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish packed with crisp vegetables, flavorful cheeses, and savory meats. With its tangy Italian dressing and variety of textures, this salad is perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to elegant gatherings. It’s an easy, make-ahead dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side to complement your main meal.

ingredients

• Romaine lettuce
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cucumber
• Red onion
• Bell peppers
• Black olives
• Pepperoncini peppers
• Fresh mozzarella balls or bocconcini
• Genoa salami, sliced
• Prosciutto, sliced
• Parmesan cheese, shaved
• Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)

directions

1. Wash and dry the romaine lettuce. Tear into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl.
2. Slice the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell peppers. Thinly slice the red onion.
3. Add the tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and onion to the bowl with the lettuce.
4. Add the black olives, pepperoncini peppers, and fresh mozzarella balls to the salad.
5. Layer the Genoa salami and prosciutto on top of the salad.
6. Sprinkle the shaved Parmesan cheese over the top.
7. Drizzle with Italian dressing and toss everything together until evenly coated.
8. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Preparation time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

• Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tuna for extra protein.
• Use arugula or mixed greens instead of romaine for a different flavor profile.
• Swap the mozzarella for feta or goat cheese for a tangier twist.
• For a more Mediterranean feel, incorporate artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers with dressing, store it separately to keep the salad from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I use a different dressing?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite vinaigrette or a creamy dressing if you prefer.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to maintain the freshness of the vegetables.

Can I omit the meats?
Absolutely! The salad will still be delicious without the salami or prosciutto, or you can substitute with grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version.

What type of lettuce is best?
Romaine lettuce is traditional, but you can mix in other greens like iceberg or butter lettuce if desired.

Conclusion

Big Classic Italian Salad is a colorful and satisfying dish that combines a variety of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, barbecue, or holiday gathering, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a must-try for any salad lover.

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