Description
This Big Yummy Italian Salad is a vibrant mix of fresh greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy olives, and savory cheeses, all tossed together in a zesty homemade dressing. It’s a satisfying and flavorful salad that’s perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Salad:
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 2 cups mixed baby greens or arugula
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup croutons
For the dressing:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Main Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, and pepperoncini. Add the shredded mozzarella or provolone and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- For the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat.
- Top with croutons and serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra protein, add sliced grilled chicken, salami, or chickpeas.
- This salad pairs perfectly with crusty bread or as a side for pasta dishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
