Description
This Homemade Antipasto Salad is a vibrant and flavorful Italian-inspired salad combining crisp romaine lettuce, savory cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables all tossed in a zesty Italian dressing. Perfect as a light meal or appetizer, this salad offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes that can be prepared quickly and served fresh.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 4 oz hard salami, cut into ½” cubes
- 4 oz small mozzarella cheese balls
- 4 oz sharp provolone cheese, cut into ½” cubes
- 1/2 cup canned roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup canned sliced black olives, drained
- 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Dressing & Seasoning
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables and Ingredients: Chop the romaine lettuce finely, cube the salami and sharp provolone cheese into ½ inch pieces, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop the roasted red peppers and fresh basil leaves. Make sure to drain the marinated artichoke hearts, canned sliced black olives, and mozzarella cheese balls to remove excess liquid for the best texture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, place the chopped romaine lettuce, cubed salami, mozzarella balls, provolone cubes, chopped roasted red peppers, sliced black olives, drained marinated artichoke hearts, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped fresh basil.
- Add Dressing and Season: Pour the Italian dressing evenly over the combined ingredients. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste preference. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss everything together until all ingredients are well coated with dressing and evenly mixed.
- Serve: Serve the antipasto salad immediately, either chilled or at room temperature, for the best flavor and freshness. Transfer to a serving bowl or individual plates and enjoy this colorful and delicious salad.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially fresh basil and quality Italian dressing.
- Adjust the amount of Italian dressing according to your preference for a lighter or more dressed salad.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead but dress it just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal if desired.
- To keep salad crisp, drain all canned ingredients thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
