There’s nothing better than a vibrant Italian Chopped Salad to brighten up your table. This salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a medley of flavors and textures that suits any occasion, from casual lunches to festive gatherings. With shaved brussels sprouts as the base, this recipe avoids sogginess, ensuring fresh crunch in every bite. Packed with crunchy vegetables, savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and a zesty garlic parmesan vinaigrette, this dish will be a hit at your next homemade pizza night!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
- Meal Prep Friendly: The use of brussels sprouts ensures that the salad stays fresh for days without becoming soggy.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Each ingredient adds its unique taste, creating a delightful harmony in every bite.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side or main dish; it pairs perfectly with various meals.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with veggies and protein from chickpeas and salami, this salad is both healthy and satisfying.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Italian Chopped Salad effortlessly, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife helps you chop ingredients quickly and safely.
- Large mixing bowl: This allows ample space to toss all ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: A whisk makes mixing the vinaigrette smooth and easy.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces brussels sprouts, stems trimmed and finely shredded
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 1/2 cups diced mini cucumber
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced pepperoncini
- 3/4 cup pitted olives, halved (any variety you like!)
- 1 15 ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 8 ounces pearl mozzarella (or cubed mozzarella or provolone)
- 1/2 cup shaved parmesan
- 6 ounces salami, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 large garlic clove, grated
- 1/4 cup finely shredded or grated parmesan
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Italian Chopped Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Shred or shave the brussels sprouts thinly. Use a sharp knife for even cuts. Add them to a large bowl along with all remaining salad ingredients.
Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:
* Extra virgin olive oil
* Red wine vinegar
* Lemon juice
* Dijon mustard
* Grated garlic
Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing
Pour the vinaigrette over the prepared salad in the large bowl. Toss everything together until well coated.
Step 4: Serve or Store
Enjoy your Italian Chopped Salad immediately for maximum freshness. Alternatively, store it in the refrigerator for up to five days to enjoy later!
How to Serve Italian Chopped Salad
Serving an Italian chopped salad can elevate any meal, making it vibrant and full of flavor. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.
As a Standalone Dish
- This salad makes for a hearty lunch or dinner option on its own. Its combination of proteins and fresh veggies ensures you get a balanced meal.
Pair with Grilled Meats
- The refreshing nature of the salad complements grilled chicken or steak perfectly, adding a crunchy texture to your meal.
Use as a Topping
- Top your favorite sandwiches or wraps with this salad for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
Accompany Pizza Night
- Serve alongside homemade pizza for a delightful contrast in flavors. The salad’s tanginess works well with cheesy pizzas.
How to Perfect Italian Chopped Salad
To ensure your Italian chopped salad is always delicious and fresh, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture. Always opt for the freshest produce available.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Customize Your Add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers or artichokes to tailor the salad to your taste.
- Opt for Quality Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will elevate the vinaigrette, making it rich and flavorful.
- Season Generously: Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper before serving, as this can greatly enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Chopped Salad
Pairing side dishes with your Italian chopped salad can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: A classic side that adds warmth and flavor, perfect for scooping up bits of salad.
- Caprese Skewers: Combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers for an easy appetizer that complements the salad.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers a delightful crunch paired with the soft textures of the salad.
- Antipasto Platter: Serve assorted cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables for a Mediterranean flair.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa provide an additional filling option alongside your salad.
- Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish loaded with seasonal veggies pairs well with the freshness of an Italian chopped salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making an Italian chopped salad can be simple, but there are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using wilted vegetables: Freshness is key! Ensure all your vegetables are crisp and vibrant to maintain the salad’s crunchiness.
- Skipping the vinaigrette prep: Don’t make the mistake of adding store-bought dressing. A homemade garlic parmesan vinaigrette enhances flavor and elevates your salad.
- Overcrowding the bowl: Adding too many ingredients at once can lead to uneven mixing. Add ingredients gradually and toss them lightly for better distribution.
- Ignoring seasoning: A bland salad is unappealing. Season your salad with salt, pepper, and oregano as you mix for a well-rounded flavor.
- Not adjusting for meal prep: If you’re making this salad in advance, keep dressing separate until serving. This prevents sogginess.
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: The Italian chopped salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Containers: Use an airtight container to keep the ingredients fresh and prevent odors from other foods.
Freezing Italian Chopped Salad
- Not recommended: Freezing is not ideal for this salad due to its fresh produce. The texture changes once thawed.
Reheating Italian Chopped Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread any leftover components on a baking sheet and warm gently for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated. Avoid overcooking to preserve texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Italian Chopped Salad?
An Italian chopped salad is a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables like brussels sprouts, cucumbers, and tomatoes, often combined with proteins like salami and mozzarella, dressed with a zesty vinaigrette.
Can I customize my Italian Chopped Salad?
Absolutely! You can add or swap ingredients based on personal preference. Consider adding bell peppers, artichokes, or even grilled chicken for variety.
How do I keep my Italian Chopped Salad fresh?
To keep it fresh, store the dressing separately from the salad mix until you’re ready to serve. This helps maintain crunchiness and flavor integrity.
Is the Italian Chopped Salad healthy?
Yes! It’s packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and offers protein from chickpeas and salami. Just watch your portion sizes if you’re monitoring calories.
Final Thoughts
This delicious Italian chopped salad combines freshness with robust flavors, making it perfect for meal prep or serving at gatherings. Feel free to customize it based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand! Try experimenting with different veggies or proteins to make it your own. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
Italian Chopped Salad
Looking for a fresh and vibrant dish to liven up your meals? This Italian Chopped Salad is a delightful combination of crunchy brussels sprouts, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and savory salami, all tossed in a zesty garlic parmesan vinaigrette. Perfect for any occasion, whether as a side or a satisfying main course, this salad delivers on flavor while being quick to prepare and meal prep friendly. With its colorful ingredients and wholesome nutrition, it’s an ideal choice for busy weekdays or festive gatherings. Enjoy a bowl of this refreshing salad at your next homemade pizza night or serve it alongside grilled meats for a well-rounded meal.
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 12 ounces brussels sprouts
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1.5 cups diced mini cucumber
- 0.5 cup pepperoncini
- 0.75 cup olives
- 1 can chickpeas (15 ounces)
- 8 ounces mozzarella
- 6 ounces salami
- Vinaigrette: olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic
Instructions
- Shred the brussels sprouts and add them to a large mixing bowl with all other salad ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and grated garlic to make the vinaigrette.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well combined.
- Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg