Italian Chopped Salad Recipe

If you are looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish that bursts with bold flavors and delightful textures, this Italian Chopped Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining crisp iceberg lettuce and slightly bitter radicchio with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, tangy pepperoncini, and hearty chickpeas, the salad offers a balanced and satisfying experience. Tossed in a zesty dressing made from lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, and oregano, this salad is an easy way to bring a little taste of Italy right to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Italian Chopped Salad Recipe are refreshingly simple but each one plays a vital role. From the crunch of the lettuce and radicchio to the creaminess of the cheeses and the bright punch of the dressing, every component works in harmony to create a salad that feels both classic and exciting.

• Iceberg lettuce, chopped: Provides a crisp, refreshing base that holds up well to the dressing.
• Radicchio, thinly sliced: Adds a beautiful pop of color and a subtle bitterness that balances the salad.
• Red onion, thinly sliced: Delivers a sharp bite that wakes up the palate.
• Cherry tomatoes, halved: Bring juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed: Introduce a nutty flavor and a nice dose of protein and fiber.
• Pearl mozzarella, halved: Offers a soft, milky creaminess that melts softly on your tongue.
• Provolone cheese, diced: Gives a sharper, tangy flavor hit and pleasant texture contrast.
• Pepperoncini, sliced: Adds a tangy, mildly spicy kick that wakes up the salad beautifully.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the dressing with citrusy zing.
• Red wine vinegar: Adds acidity and depth to the dressing’s flavor.
• Shallot, finely chopped: Contributes a mild onion flavor that blends seamlessly into the dressing.
• Garlic, minced: Provides a warm, aromatic punch in the dressing.
• Dried oregano: Infuses the dressing with classic Italian herbaceous notes.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Brings smoothness and richness to emulsify the dressing perfectly.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning all components just right.

How to Make Italian Chopped Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by whisking together the lemon juice, red wine vinegar, finely chopped shallot, minced garlic, and dried oregano in a small bowl. This creates the bright and flavorful foundation of your dressing that will marry all the salad’s ingredients together perfectly.

Step 2: Emulsify with Olive Oil

Slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while whisking continuously. This technique helps the ingredients combine smoothly, creating a luscious, slightly thickened dressing that glides over the salad instead of just sitting on top.

Step 3: Season to Perfection

Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy here—seasoning enhances every ingredient’s natural flavors and the dressing itself. Give it a taste and adjust if needed before moving on.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad Base

In a large bowl, toss together the chopped iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced radicchio, red onion, juicy halved cherry tomatoes, and rinsed chickpeas. Each ingredient adds its unique texture and flavor, creating a lively mix.

Step 5: Add the Cheeses and Pepperoncini

Next, gently fold in the pearl mozzarella halves, diced provolone cheese, and sliced pepperoncini. These elements add creaminess, tang, and just the right amount of heat to keep every bite exciting.

Step 6: Toss with Dressing

Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss everything together, making sure every piece is coated evenly. This step is where all those flavors meld into one cohesive and irresistible dish.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Transfer the salad to individual plates or a large serving bowl and enjoy right away. The freshness and crunch are at their peak now, making this the perfect time to dig in.

How to Serve Italian Chopped Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of shaved Parmesan can elevate the salad even more. These garnishes introduce an herbal brightness or a salty richness that complements the existing flavors.

Side Dishes

This Italian Chopped Salad Recipe pairs exceptionally well with grilled chicken or fish for a light, balanced meal. Crusty bread or garlic focaccia on the side is great for soaking up extra dressing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a unique twist, serve the salad layered in a large glass bowl so the colors shine through, or pack it in individual mason jars for picnics and lunches. Presentation can make this simple salad feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Store the salad in the fridge, but be aware that the lettuce and radicchio may lose some of their crispness over time.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad since the fresh vegetables and cheeses will suffer in texture once thawed. Save this salad for enjoying fresh whenever possible.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is unnecessary and would negatively affect the crisp textures and fresh flavors.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of lettuce in this Italian Chopped Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! While iceberg provides great crunch, you can substitute with romaine or even butter lettuce for a softer texture, though it will change the salad’s character slightly.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, it is vegetarian-friendly since it contains no meat. The cheeses provide protein, and the chickpeas add heartiness, making it a filling option.

How long does the salad stay fresh after making it?

For the best taste and texture, enjoy the salad within a day or two. If you keep the dressing separate and store it in the fridge, that can help preserve freshness a bit longer.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even slices of salami make excellent additions to turn this salad into a complete meal.

What can I substitute for pepperoncini?

If you prefer less heat, mild banana peppers or pickled jalapeños work well as alternatives, giving you a similar tangy flavor with varied spice levels.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Chopped Salad Recipe is a stellar example of how simple ingredients come together to create something truly special. It’s the kind of salad that feels homemade yet sophisticated, perfect for weekday lunches or weekend gatherings. I encourage you to try it soon—you’ll be hooked on the fresh tastes and the effortless charm it brings to the table.

Italian Chopped Salad Recipe

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4.2 from 51 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A vibrant and flavorful Italian Chopped Salad featuring a crisp mix of iceberg lettuce, radicchio, fresh vegetables, and cheeses tossed in a tangy lemon and red wine vinegar dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a side dish that brings a refreshing Mediterranean flair to your table.

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Ingredients

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Salad Ingredients

• 4 cups iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup radicchio, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup pearl mozzarella, halved
• 1/2 cup provolone cheese, diced
• 1/4 cup pepperoncini, sliced

Dressing Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, finely chopped shallot, minced garlic, and dried oregano until well combined.
2. Emulsify the Dressing: Slowly drizzle in 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil while continuously whisking until the mixture emulsifies into a smooth dressing.
3. Season the Dressing: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed to balance the flavors.
4. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add chopped iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced radicchio, thinly sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and drained chickpeas. Toss gently to combine.
5. Add Cheeses and Pepperoncini: Incorporate pearl mozzarella halves, diced provolone cheese, and sliced pepperoncini into the salad mix for texture and flavor contrast.
6. Toss with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
7. Serve: Transfer the salad to individual serving plates or a large salad bowl and enjoy immediately for optimal freshness and crispness.

Notes

• For added protein, you can include grilled chicken or salami slices.
• Adjust the amount of pepperoncini based on your preferred level of heat.
• The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 4 hours without losing too much crispness.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in the dressing.
• If desired, add fresh basil or parsley for an herbal twist.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian