A vibrant, flavorful salad that brings together the best of Italian antipasto, this Tasty and Zesty Antipasto Salad is perfect for sharing. With crunchy romaine, creamy mozzarella, tangy olives, and savory salami, all tossed in a homemade vinaigrette, this dish is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. It’s an excellent option for lunch, dinner, or even a party appetizer. Let’s dive into this fresh, satisfying salad recipe!
Introduction
If you’re a fan of bold flavors and variety in every bite, then this Antipasto Salad is for you. Inspired by traditional Italian antipasto platters, this salad combines the best of Mediterranean flavors with fresh greens and a tangy homemade dressing. Antipasto means “before the meal,” and this salad makes a perfect start to any Italian-inspired feast. Packed with veggies, cheese, and meats, it’s a deliciously well-rounded meal on its own!
Ingredients
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
Antipasto Salad Ingredients
- 8 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 (7.5-ounce) jar grilled marinated artichoke hearts, drained
- 8 ounces mozzarella pearls or mozzarella balls
- ⅔ cup pitted Kalamata olives
- 1 cup assorted sweet cherry peppers and peperoncini
- 8 ounces chopped Genoa salami
- Fresh basil ribbons, for garnish
How to Make Tasty and Zesty Antipasto Salad
Follow these steps to create your own Tasty and Zesty Antipasto Salad:
- Prepare the Dressing: In a mason jar, combine red wine vinegar, minced garlic, sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil. Seal the jar and shake well until the ingredients are fully combined.
- Toss the Lettuce with Dressing: Place the chopped romaine lettuce in a large serving bowl. Drizzle about half of the dressing over the lettuce, tossing gently to coat.
- Assemble the Salad: Top the dressed romaine with grape tomatoes, marinated artichoke hearts, mozzarella pearls, Kalamata olives, cherry peppers, peperoncini, and chopped salami.
- Add Final Touches: Drizzle the remaining dressing over the top of the salad. Garnish with fresh basil ribbons to add a burst of fresh flavor and a lovely finish.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the salad immediately, allowing everyone to enjoy the fresh, bold flavors of each component.
Helpful Tips
- Customize the Ingredients: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients, such as using roasted red peppers, sliced cucumbers, or provolone cheese.
- Make Ahead: The dressing can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just shake it up again before using.
- Salad Variations: For a low-carb option, you can skip the croutons (if using) or add more fresh greens like arugula for a peppery twist.
Cooking Tips
Here are a few tips to make your Tasty and Zesty Antipasto Salad even better:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for the freshest vegetables and herbs for the best taste and presentation.
- Dressing Tip: To keep the salad from getting soggy, toss with dressing just before serving.
- Equipment Tip: A large, shallow serving bowl works best to display the layers of toppings in this salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Antipasto Salad is perfect as a starter for an Italian meal or as a refreshing main dish. Pair it with a glass of white wine or a sparkling water with lemon for a light and balanced pairing. You can also serve it alongside warm garlic bread or a simple pasta for a complete meal experience.
Nutritional Information
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- Rich in healthy fats from olive oil and mozzarella.
- Provides a variety of vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables and herbs.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 360
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 450mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 80%
- Vitamin C: 30%
- Calcium: 20%
- Iron: 10%
This Antipasto Salad is a nutrient-dense choice with a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep you satisfied.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Keep the Dressing Separate: To keep the salad fresh, store the dressing separately if you anticipate leftovers. This will help prevent the lettuce from becoming wilted.
Leftover salad can be used as a topping for sandwiches or served over pasta for a quick meal option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the salami and add extra vegetables, such as cucumbers or roasted red peppers, for a fully vegetarian option.
What other greens can I use besides romaine?
Arugula, baby spinach, or mixed greens work well and add extra flavor.
Can I add croutons?
Absolutely! Croutons add a nice crunch and pair well with the dressing. Just add them right before serving so they stay crispy.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like:
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
- Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
- Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
- Greek Salad with Feta and Olives
Conclusion
And there you have it—the ultimate Tasty and Zesty Antipasto Salad! This salad is packed with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a refreshing crunch that’s sure to please. Whether as a side dish or a main course, it’s a delicious way to bring a taste of Italy to your table. We hope you enjoy every bite!