Italian Chopped Salad
A crunchy, colorful salad featuring tangy giardiniera, crisp greens, cheese, and a simple balsamic-olive oil dressing.
Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups Italian giardiniera, drained and chopped
- 4 cups romaine lettuce or mixed greens, chopped
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup salami or prosciutto, sliced into strips (optional)
- ½ cup Provolone or Mozzarella pearls
- ¼ cup green olives
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- 3 tbsp EVOO
- 1 tbsp De Nigris Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp organic orange honey (for balance)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine romaine, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, giardiniera, cheese, and salami or prosciutto (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley, and serve immediately.
Tips from the Chefs
- Serve with fresh bread, Polenta Rolls, or a bowl of Minestrone with Mista Pasta.
- Pair with Chianti or Pinot Grigio.
- For a spicy kick, drizzle a touch of Chili Pepper Infused Olive Oil over the top.