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Massive Classic Italian Salad
When it comes to hearty, refreshing salads, nothing quite compares to the vibrant flavors of a classic Italian salad. This recipe is particularly special because it’s not just a side dish—it’s a mound of colorful ingredients that will steal the show on your table. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a casual family dinner, or simply want to elevate your lunch, this Massive Classic Italian Salad fits the bill. With layers of crunch and zest, it’s a beautifully satisfying option that reminds us of sunny Italian picnics.
What Makes This Recipe Special
The beauty of this Massive Classic Italian Salad lies in its balance of flavors and textures. Each ingredient contributes something unique—from the crispness of the romaine lettuce to the tang of feta cheese, and the savory notes of salami. Not only is it a delight to eat, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, which is a win for busy weeknights or potlucks.
This salad is versatile enough for any occasion: serve it alongside grilled meats for a summer cookout, or as a stand-alone dish at a brunch gathering. The best part? You can customize it to suit your taste preferences, from extra herbs to additional veggies.
"This salad is a staple in our house! Packed with flavor and so satisfying, it has become the go-to recipe for family gatherings." — Renowned Food Blogger
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It
Preparing the Massive Classic Italian Salad is a breeze, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned food lovers. Start by gathering your ingredients and read through the easy-to-follow steps for a smoother cooking experience. Each step is designed to yield a salad that’s colorful, flavorful, and impressive enough for any table setting.
Gather Your Ingredients
To make this delightful salad, you will need the following:
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- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp white vinegar (or rice vinegar or lemon juice)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 14 to 16 ounces of romaine lettuce (chopped)
- 1 cup kalamata olives (sliced)
- 1 cup pepperoncinis
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 2 cups salami (cut into strips)
- 1/2 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 6 ounces grated parmesan cheese (adjust to taste, about 1/2 to 1 cup)
Feel free to swap out ingredients for your preferences—use a different type of cheese or add other vegetables like cucumbers for a refreshing crunch.
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the olive oil, white vinegar (or a substitute), garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, dried oregano, black pepper, and sea salt until well combined. Set aside.
- Chop the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
- In a very large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine, sliced kalamata olives, pepperoncinis, halved cherry tomatoes, salami strips, and thinly sliced red onion. If your bowl is not big enough, you can split the ingredients between two bowls.
- Drizzle your desired amount of dressing over the salad and toss it well to combine. Taste and add more parmesan cheese or dressing according to your liking.
- Serve immediately or save any extra dressing in a mason jar for up to two weeks.
Best Way to Serve
This Massive Classic Italian Salad shines when served on a large platter or in a big bowl, allowing the beautiful colors to be displayed prominently. Pair it with crusty garlic bread or grilled chicken for a hearty meal. It’s also great as a standalone dish, perfect for a light lunch. Consider adding fresh basil or arugula for an herbaceous touch!
Storage Tips
Leftovers? No problem! This salad can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. To keep it fresh longer, consider storing the dressing separately. Always remember to handle food safely: keep leftovers chilled and consume within a few days for the best flavor and quality.
Pro Chef Tips
- Prepping Ahead: If you’re making this salad for an event, chop the vegetables ahead of time and store them separately. Toss everything together right before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.
- Vegan Twist: Swap out the salami for chickpeas and omit the cheese for a delightful vegan option.
- Dress it Up: Experiment with different dressings to find the combination you love best. A homemade balsamic vinaigrette can be a wonderful alternative!
Creative Twists
Take this classic recipe to new heights by adding unique flavors or ingredients. Try incorporating ingredients like artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or even grilled shrimp. You can also switch the cheese to feta or mozzarella for a different twist. Explore various herbs such as dill or basil to really make the flavors pop!
Your Questions Answered
What is the preparation time for the Massive Classic Italian Salad?
Preparation typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on how quickly you can chop the vegetables.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the salami and add chickpeas or a variety of fresh vegetables to keep it full of protein and flavor.
How long can I store leftovers?
This salad can be refrigerated for up to three days, though it’s best when fresh. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve!
By following this guide, you’ll Master the Massive Classic Italian Salad and be ready to impress your family and friends with an incredible dish that’s both delicious and visually stunning! Enjoy!
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Massive Classic Italian Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and refreshing salad featuring layers of crisp romaine, tangy olives, and savory salami, drizzled with a flavorful dressing.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp white vinegar (or rice vinegar or lemon juice)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 14 to 16 ounces of romaine lettuce (chopped)
- 1 cup kalamata olives (sliced)
- 1 cup pepperoncinis
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 2 cups salami (cut into strips)
- 1/2 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 6 ounces grated parmesan cheese (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the olive oil, white vinegar (or a substitute), garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, dried oregano, black pepper, and sea salt until well combined. Set aside.
- Chop the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
- In a very large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine, sliced kalamata olives, pepperoncinis, halved cherry tomatoes, salami strips, and thinly sliced red onion. If your bowl is not big enough, you can split the ingredients between two bowls.
- Drizzle your desired amount of dressing over the salad and toss it well to combine. Taste and add more parmesan cheese or dressing according to your liking.
- Serve immediately or save any extra dressing in a mason jar for up to two weeks.
Notes
For a vegan option, swap salami for chickpeas and omit the cheese. Keep leftovers chilled and consume within a few days for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Italian salad, summer salad, easy salad recipe, refreshing salad, healthy salad
