Italian Chopped Salad Deluxe

This Italian Chopped Salad is the kind of meal that makes salads crave-worthy. Loaded with crisp lettuce, savory Italian meats, creamy cheeses, crunchy chickpeas, and bright vegetables, then tossed in a zesty homemade dressing, it hits every note for flavor and texture. When I want a light dinner or an impressive summer side, this is my go-to and my family never leaves a leaf behind.

The first summer I made this, my kids picked out the salami pieces to start and then fell for the crunchy chickpeas and cheesy bites too. Now it’s on regular rotation for picnics and quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• Iceberg Lettuce: Adds crunch and freshness Look for a firm head without brown spots
• Romaine Lettuce: Delivers extra color and texture Choose dark green leaves for nutrition
• Cherry Tomatoes: Bring juicy sweetness I prefer bright red ripe fruit for best flavor
• English Cucumber: Offers crispness with fewer seeds Seek out firm straight cucumbers with no soft spots
• Fresh Mozzarella: Lends creamy richness Choose mozzarella packed in water for best taste
• Salami: Provides classic Italian taste and saltiness Opt for a quality brand from the deli
• Provolone Cheese: Gives nutty depth and a robust bite Use a wedge and cut fresh for smooth flavor
• Chickpeas: Add extra protein and a nutty bite Use canned for convenience rinse well
• Pepperoncini Peppers: Lend a tangy mild heat Go for jarred peppers with a bright yellow color
• Red Onion: Contributes sharp sweetness Slice thinly for a mild kick and pretty color
• Shaved Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkled on top for bold salty flavor Shave fresh from a block with a vegetable peeler
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Starts the base for the homemade dressing Choose a peppery aromatic oil for dressing
• Red Wine Vinegar: Gives the dressing its signature tang Look for a vibrant deep red color
• Garlic Clove: Adds a savory punch Use fresh garlic for the best result
• Dried Oregano: Brings a familiar Italian herb note Pick an aromatic dried herb that smells fresh
• Dijon Mustard: Helps bind the dressing and add zip Go for a smooth creamy texture
• Salt and Pepper: Rounds out the seasoning Use kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper if possible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Chop The Lettuce:

Chop the iceberg and romaine into small bite-size pieces so every bite gets a little bit of everything The chopping makes the salad feel abundant and easier to eat

Prep The Veggies and Cheeses:

Slice the tomatoes in half or dice if using larger types Slice the cucumber nice and thin Dice mozzarella provolone and salami into bite-size cubes for even distribution Finely dice the pepperoncini and slice the onion thinly

Season The Chickpeas:

Drain and rinse chickpeas well For extra flavor toss with a little olive oil pinch of dried basil dried oregano and red chili flakes Let them sit while prepping the rest for a flavor boost

Mix The Dressing:

Whisk together olive oil red wine vinegar minced garlic dried oregano dijon mustard and a big pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl Taste and adjust seasoning Add more salt or vinegar for balance For a creamy dressing blend until smooth

Toss and Serve:

Place all the salad ingredients in a large bowl Pour dressing over and toss well to coat everything evenly Garnish generously with shaved parmesan red pepper flakes and extra fresh cracked pepper

Save

What I really love is the creamy mozzarella paired with the zesty dressing The first time I shared this at a family reunion even my picky cousin asked for the recipe and now it is part of our summer get-togethers

Storage Tips

Store leftover salad undressed in an airtight container in the refrigerator It keeps crisp for two days For longer storage keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving The salad is delicious cold right from the fridge

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out the meats for whatever you have on hand Try turkey pepperoni or ham for a lighter choice If you want it vegetarian leave out the meat and add extra chickpeas Black olives also make a briny addition

Serving Suggestions

This salad shines on its own for lunch but is also fantastic beside grilled chicken steak or hearty Italian sandwiches If you want to turn it into a main dish simply pile on additional protein or serve with crusty bread to soak up the dressing

History of Chopped Salads

Italian chopped salads are inspired by classic Italian deli offerings with their bold flavors and emphasis on hearty meats and cheeses While not traditionally Italian in the strictest sense their spirit comes straight from the heart of Italian American food culture Italians love using what is fresh and abundant

Recipe FAQs

→ What lettuce works best for a chopped salad like this?

A combination of iceberg and romaine provides both crunch and freshness, making the salad hearty yet crisp.

→ Can I substitute the meats or cheeses?

Yes, you can use other cured Italian meats like prosciutto or ham, and swap in cheeses such as fontina or asiago.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Simply omit the salami and add more chickpeas or extra vegetables for a satisfying meatless alternative.

→ How do I keep the salad fresh for serving later?

Prepare all ingredients ahead but store the dressing separately. Toss together just before serving for maximum crispness.

→ What makes the homemade dressing special?

Freshly minced garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, and olive oil give the dressing its tangy, aromatic Italian flavor.

→ Can I use store-bought dressing?

Store-bought Italian dressings can be used, but making your own offers a fresher and more vibrant taste.