Step 3: Prepare the Proteins and Cheese
- Cube or shred provolone cheese.
- Chop salami or pepperoni into bite-sized pieces.
- Grate or shave fresh Parmesan.
🍖 Optional Additions: Cooked, diced chicken breast, chickpeas, or prosciutto for added protein.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl:
- Add all chopped vegetables.
- Add the salami, provolone, and olives.
- Toss everything gently to combine.
Step 5: Dress and Toss
- Pour your prepared vinaigrette over the salad (start with half, and add more to taste).
- Toss thoroughly to coat every ingredient evenly.
- Sprinkle Parmesan on top just before serving.
🥄 Serving Suggestion: Serve chilled or at room temperature with crusty Italian bread or as a side to pasta, pizza, or grilled meats.
Variations You Can Try
- Vegetarian version: Skip the meats and add chickpeas or marinated artichokes.
- Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or hot cherry peppers.
- Keto-friendly: Use more meats and cheese, reduce tomatoes and onions.
- Creamy twist: Mix in a spoon of mayo or Greek yogurt into the vinaigrette.
Storage Tips
- Store undressed salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep dressing separate until ready to serve.
- Dressed salad will last 1 day before getting soggy.
Final Thoughts
The Italian Chopped Salad is proof that salads don’t have to be boring. Bursting with texture, flavor, and vibrant colors, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a meal and not just a side. With just a bit of chopping and tossing, you’ll have a salad that’s fresh, filling, and irresistibly tasty — and possibly your new go-to for gatherings, quick lunches, or weeknight dinners.
Try it once, and you’ll see why the Italian Chopped Salad is a classic with good reason. 🥗🇮🇹
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