A Flavor-Packed, No-Cook Meal with Salty, Tangy, and Crispy Bites

This Italian Chopped Salad is a hearty, colorful medley of crisp greens, salty meats, tangy cheeses, and zesty vegetables. With bold flavors from salami, pepperoni, provolone, and mozzarella, plus a refreshing finish from red onion, artichokes, and pepperoncini—it’s like a flavor explosion in a bowl.

Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a quick, satisfying side dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• 🥬 Crunchy Greens Base: Chopped romaine or iceberg gives a crisp, refreshing foundation.
• 🧀 Cheesy Goodness: Provolone and mozzarella bring creaminess and melt-in-your-mouth richness.
• 🥩 Meat Lover’s Dream: Salami and pepperoni add bold, spicy-salty depth.
• 🥒 Tangy Veggies: Artichokes, olives, onion, and pepperoncini deliver briny, acidic contrast.
• ⏱️ No-Cook Magic: Ready in 15 minutes—ideal for summer or busy days.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

For the Salad:

• 6 cups chopped lettuce (romaine or iceberg – about 120g)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (about 2 medium tomatoes – or cherry tomatoes halved)
• 1 cup canned artichoke hearts , drained and coarsely chopped (about 14 oz can)
• ½ cup black or green olives , sliced or whole (pitted – for easier eating)
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (adds sharp bite – soak in water to mellow if desired)
• ¼ cup sliced pepperoncini (or banana peppers for less heat)
• ½ cup chopped provolone cheese (or cheddar for variation)
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls , halved (about 1 cup – or use low-moisture mozzarella)
• ½ cup chopped salami (or turkey pepperoni for a lighter option)
• ½ cup chopped pepperoni (or omit for a vegetarian version)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley , chopped (for color and freshness)

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup Italian dressing (homemade or store-bought – see tip below)
• Optional:
  • Balsamic glaze
  • Extra virgin olive oil drizzle
  • Parmesan shavings

Instructions:

Step 1: Prep All Ingredients

Wash and dry all vegetables.

Chop:

• Lettuce into bite-sized pieces
• Tomatoes
• Artichoke hearts
• Provolone cheese
• Salami and pepperoni (if not pre-chopped)

Thinly slice:

• Red onion
• Pepperoncini

Halve mozzarella balls and set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl:

• Start with a base of chopped lettuce
• Top with:
  • Tomatoes
  • Artichokes
  • Olives
  • Red onion
  • Pepperoncini
  • Provolone
  • Mozzarella
  • Salami & pepperoni

Sprinkle with fresh herbs —this is where the flavor comes alive!

Step 3: Dress & Toss

Pour Italian dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Tip: For homemade Italian dressing, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Serve Fresh & Flavorful

Divide among plates or bowls.

Drizzle with a bit more dressing if desired.

Each bite brings together:

• Crisp, cool lettuce
• Juicy, sweet tomatoes
• Briny, tangy artichokes and olives
• Spicy, salty salami and pepperoni
• And that classic Italian herb finish

Tips for Success:

• 🧂 Mellow the Onions: Soak red onion slices in ice water for 10 minutes, then drain for a gentler bite.
• 🧁 Make It Creamy: Add crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese for extra richness.
• 🌱 Vegetarian Option: Skip the meats and double up on olives, artichokes, and extra cheese.
• 🍴 Prep Ahead: Store dressing and chopped ingredients separately—toss just before serving.
• ❄️ Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps well refrigerated for 1–2 days—best when dressed fresh.

Serving Suggestions:

• Perfect with garlic bread or crusty Italian rolls for a full meal.
• Great with a cold drink like lemon water, iced tea, or white wine.
• Ideal as a light lunch, dinner side, or picnic-ready salad.

Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 4 – approximate):

(With regular dressing – per serving)

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Protein: ~15g
• Carbohydrates: ~10g
• Fat: ~25g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~4g

This Italian Chopped Salad proves that salads don’t have to be boring to be healthy. With its bold meats, tangy cheeses, and zesty vegetables—it’s a must-make for lovers of Mediterranean and Italian flavors.

So go ahead and make this today… because once you try it—you’ll be making it again and again!