Deluxe Chopped Italian Antipasto Salad
This Deluxe Chopped Italian Antipasto Salad embodies the vibrant flavors of Italy, combining fresh produce with classic antipasto ingredients. Each bite bursts with the savory taste of salami or prosciutto, complemented by the tang of artichoke hearts and a zesty dressing. Whether you're enjoying a light lunch or serving as a side at your next gathering, this salad is versatile and satisfying. Feel free to personalize it by adding your favorite antipasto treats such as olives, different cheeses, or assorted veggies—making it an irresistible dish that will leave your guests wanting more!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Romaine lettuce
1 head (Cut into 1-inch squares)
Salami or prosciutto
1/4 lb (Chopped)
Drained sliced pimiento
1/3 cup (Drained from a 4-ounce jar)
Chopped red onion
1/3 cup (Chopped)
Canned artichoke hearts
1 1/2 cups (Drained, rinsed, and chopped from a 15-ounce can)
Red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar
3 tablespoons (N/A)
Olive oil
1/4 cup (N/A)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (N/A)
Fresh ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (N/A)
Grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (N/A)
Chopped pepperoncini pepper
To taste (Optional)
Provolone cheese
To taste (Optional)
Thin-sliced basil leaves
1/3 cup (Optional)
Instructions
1
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, salami or prosciutto, sliced pimiento, chopped red onion, and artichoke hearts. If you're using optional ingredients like chopped pepperoncini, provolone cheese, or basil leaves, add these now as well.
2
In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar (or white wine vinegar), olive oil, salt, and fresh ground black pepper until well combined.
3
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
4
Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5
Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or chill for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Deluxe Chopped Italian Antipasto Salad?
It is a vibrant salad that combines fresh Romaine lettuce with classic Italian antipasto ingredients like salami or prosciutto, artichoke hearts, and a zesty vinaigrette.
What kind of meat should I use in this salad?
The recipe calls for 1/4 lb of either chopped salami or prosciutto, depending on your preference.
How should the Romaine lettuce be prepared?
One head of Romaine lettuce should be cut into 1-inch squares for the base of the salad.
What are the primary vegetables in this salad?
The main vegetables include Romaine lettuce, chopped red onion, and canned artichoke hearts.
How do I prepare the artichoke hearts?
Use 1 1/2 cups of canned artichoke hearts that have been drained, rinsed, and chopped.
What type of vinegar works best for the dressing?
You can use either 3 tablespoons of red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar.
Is there a specific oil required for the dressing?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of olive oil to whisk together with the vinegar and seasonings.
What spices are used to season the salad?
The dressing is seasoned with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper.
What kind of cheese is included in the base recipe?
The salad is topped with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Can I add spicy elements to this salad?
Yes, you can add chopped pepperoncini pepper to taste for an extra kick.
What optional cheeses can I add?
Provolone cheese is a great optional addition to this antipasto salad.
Can I use fresh herbs in this recipe?
Yes, adding 1/3 cup of thin-sliced fresh basil leaves is a recommended optional ingredient.
How should I prepare the pimientos?
Use 1/3 cup of sliced pimiento, making sure it is drained from the jar before adding it to the bowl.
How do I combine the dressing ingredients?
In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until the mixture is well combined.
When should the Parmesan cheese be added?
Drizzle the dressing over the salad first, then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top before tossing.
How long does it take for the flavors to meld?
You can chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend together.
Can I serve this salad immediately?
Yes, it can be served immediately after tossing for the freshest taste.
Is this salad suitable for a light lunch?
Absolutely, it is versatile and satisfying enough to be enjoyed as a light lunch or a side dish.
What makes this salad a good option for gatherings?
Its vibrant flavors, classic Italian ingredients, and the ability to serve as a crowd-pleasing side dish make it perfect for gatherings.
Can I customize the vegetables in this salad?
Yes, the recipe encourages personalizing the salad with your favorite antipasto treats, such as olives or assorted veggies.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe includes a total of 13 ingredients, including the dressing components and optional items.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to combine the chopped romaine, meat, pimiento, red onion, and artichoke hearts in a large bowl.
Is this salad considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as healthy due to its high vegetable content and fresh ingredients.
What type of container should I use to mix the salad?
A large salad bowl is recommended to ensure you have enough room to toss the ingredients thoroughly.
How should I toss the salad?
Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
What is the preparation for the red onion?
The red onion should be chopped, and you will need 1/3 cup for the recipe.
Can I use white wine vinegar instead of red?
Yes, white wine vinegar is a perfectly acceptable substitute mentioned in the recipe.
How much salami is required?
The recipe requires 1/4 lb of chopped salami or prosciutto.
What is the texture of the salad?
It is a chopped salad, meaning all ingredients are cut into small, bite-sized pieces for a consistent texture.
Is this recipe good for parties?
Yes, it is tagged as 'party food' and is designed to be an irresistible dish for guests.