Description
A delicious and hearty Italian salad featuring fresh romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and a flavorful Italian dressing. Topped with cheese and optional salami or pepperoni, this salad is perfect as a side or a main course.
Ingredients
Main Salad:
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini, sliced
- 1/2 cup black or kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup chopped salami or pepperoni (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup croutons
Italian Dressing:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk or shake together all dressing ingredients until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine romaine, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, pepperoncini, olives, salami or pepperoni (if using), mozzarella, and Parmesan. Add croutons and drizzle with the Italian dressing.
- Toss and Serve: Toss the salad to coat with the dressing and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add chickpeas or roasted red peppers.
- This salad pairs well with pasta or grilled chicken.
