Print

Fresh Italian Antipasto Chopped Salad Recipe with Easy Red Wine Vinaigrette

Italian Antipasto Chopped Salad - featured image

A vibrant and crunchy Italian antipasto chopped salad featuring crisp veggies, savory cured meats, provolone cheese, and a tangy homemade red wine vinaigrette. Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup Italian salami, diced
  • 1/2 cup provolone cheese, diced
  • 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the vegetables thoroughly. Use a salad spinner or pat dry with a clean towel to keep the salad crisp.
  2. Chop all salad components uniformly: dice romaine lettuce, halve cherry tomatoes, dice salami and provolone, slice olives, chop roasted red peppers, dice cucumber, and finely chop red onion.
  3. In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake until emulsified and smooth.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine all chopped salad ingredients. Pour the vinaigrette over and toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
  5. Tear fresh basil leaves over the top and toss gently for added brightness and aroma.
  6. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

Chop ingredients uniformly for balanced texture and flavor. Use a sharp knife to avoid bruising vegetables. Make vinaigrette fresh and add dressing gradually to avoid overdressing. Keep dressing separate if prepping ahead. Soaking red onion in cold water can reduce sharpness. Drain olives and meats to prevent watering down the salad.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian salad, antipasto salad, chopped salad, red wine vinaigrette, easy salad recipe, healthy salad, gluten-free salad