Irresistible Italian Chopped Salad Recipe for Fresh Flavor

Name: Italian Chopped Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-485374H14M28S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce; 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes; 1 cup diced cucumber; 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (mixed colors); 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Published: May 15, 2025

by Vanessa

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Italian Chopped Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
The explosion of flavors will make your taste buds sing while being visually stunning on any table.
Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal, its versatility shines through every time.

Ingredients for Italian Chopped Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Romaine Lettuce: Fresh and crisp romaine provides the perfect base for your salad, adding crunch and nutrients.
Cherry Tomatoes: These juicy gems add sweetness and color; opt for vibrant red or yellow varieties for visual appeal.
Cucumber: Choose firm cucumbers for their refreshing crunch; they balance out the rich flavors beautifully.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colors (red, yellow, green) to enhance both taste and presentation.
Kidney Beans: These legumes add protein and heartiness; rinse well before adding them to your salad.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings creaminess and tang; for a dairy-free option, consider using marinated tofu instead.
Olive Oil: High-quality olive oil is essential for drizzling over the salad; it ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic vinegar adds depth; choose a good-quality one for maximum flavor impact.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil enhances the Italian essence of this refreshing dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Italian Chopped Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Wash all your veggies thoroughly. Chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces, halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumbers, slice bell peppers into strips, and finely chop red onion. Remember—the more colorful you make it, the happier your salad will be!

Step 2: Mix It Up

In a large bowl, combine all chopped vegetables: romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, kidney beans, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently so as not to crush those beautiful tomatoes. For more inspiration, check out this Vegetarian Chili Recipe recipe.

Step 3: Dress It Right

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar along with Italian seasoning. Pour over the salad mixture. Don’t hold back—this is where the magic happens!

Step 4: Toss & Taste

Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are well-coated with dressing. Taste-test! Adjust seasoning if needed—maybe an extra sprinkle of salt or pepper?

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

For best flavor infusion, let your salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This step allows all those delicious flavors to mingle like old friends at a reunion.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer to plates or serve family-style straight from the bowl! Garnish with additional feta or herbs if desired. Enjoy this delightful medley at picnics or as part of dinner—it’s sure to impress!

And there you have it—a scrumptious Italian Chopped Salad that not only looks fantastic but tastes divine too! Perfect for those sunny days when you crave something fresh yet filling. Grab your fork and dig in because this dish deserves every bit of your attention!

You Must Know

This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in juices, then prepare the salad while it cooks. Toss everything together right before serving for maximum freshness and crunch. BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preferences! Try adding chickpeas for protein, or a splash of lemon juice for a zesty kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, avoid microwaving too long to keep veggies crisp and fresh.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh ingredients to enhance flavors; wilted veggies can ruin the dish.
Marinate chicken overnight for deeper flavors.
Don’t skip the olive oil drizzle; it adds richness and depth!

I once brought this Italian Chopped Salad to a picnic, and my friends insisted I was secretly a chef. Little did they know, it was just a matter of chopping and tossing!

FAQs:

What ingredients are in Italian Chopped Salad?

Italian Chopped Salad features fresh vegetables and flavorful additions. Common ingredients include chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and olives. For added protein, you can include diced chicken or turkey. Greek Chicken Bowls with Tahini A simple dressing made from olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs enhances the flavors. Creamy Ricotta Chicken Skillet You can also add cheese such as mozzarella or feta for a creamy touch. Experiment with your favorite vegetables to customize this vibrant salad.

How do I prepare the dressing for Italian Chopped Salad?

To prepare the dressing for Italian Chopped Salad, combine olive oil and vinegar in a bowl. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. Whisk the mixture until it emulsifies. For a zesty twist, consider adding lemon juice or Dijon mustard. This dressing complements the fresh vegetables perfectly. Drizzle it over your chopped salad just before serving for maximum freshness and flavor.

Can I make Italian Chopped Salad in advance?

Yes, you can make Italian Chopped Salad in advance. Chop all your vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid soggy greens. When it’s time to enjoy your salad, mix everything together and add the dressing just before serving for optimal freshness. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or gatherings.

What variations can I try with Italian Chopped Salad?

You can try various delicious variations of Italian Chopped Salad by incorporating different proteins or vegetables. Consider using grilled chicken or roasted turkey for added flavor. Swap out traditional vegetables for seasonal options like asparagus or artichokes for a unique twist. You could also add chickpeas or beans for extra protein and fiber. Experiment with herbs and spices to create a salad that suits your taste preferences.

Conclusion for Italian Chopped Salad

Italian Chopped Salad is a refreshing dish that combines vibrant flavors and textures through its choice of crisp vegetables and proteins like chicken or turkey. The homemade dressing elevates this salad further with its tangy notes. Preparing this dish is simple; you can even make it ahead of time for convenience. Feel free to personalize your salad with different ingredients based on your preferences. Enjoy this healthy option that’s perfect as a side or main dish any day!

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