Welcome to this delicious journey of making a Massive Classic Italian Salad! If you love big, hearty salads that are easy to customize and packed with flavor, then this is the perfect recipe for you. This recipe is ideal for any gathering, offering all the delightful flavors of Italy. Let’s dive into the world of vibrant, fresh ingredients that make this salad so irresistible!
Introduction
This Massive Classic Italian Salad is the ultimate comfort dish that combines traditional Italian flavors with modern-day convenience. It’s loaded with crunchy romaine, salty olives, savory salami, and a tangy homemade Italian dressing. The beauty of this dish is in its versatility—you can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs or personal preferences. Whether you’re serving this as a side dish or the main event, it’s sure to impress your guests!
Related Recipe: For those who enjoy hearty side dishes, check out this guide on making the Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread – a perfect complement to this Italian Salad.
Ingredients for Massive Classic Italian Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this huge, flavorful salad:
Italian Dressing:
- ½ cup olive oil
- 3 Tbsp white vinegar (substitute with rice vinegar or lemon juice)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp sea salt
Salad:
- 14-16 ounces romaine leaf lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 cup pepperoncinis
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups salami, cut into strips
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 6 ounces grated parmesan cheese (about ½ to 1 cup, depending on taste)
Feel free to substitute pepperoncinis with mild banana peppers for a less spicy option or swap salami with a plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist.
How to Make Massive Classic Italian Salad – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine olive oil, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, oregano, black pepper, and sea salt. Whisk thoroughly to blend. Set aside and stir before using.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
Chop the romaine lettuce, slice the olives and onions, halve the cherry tomatoes, and cut the salami into strips. In a large mixing bowl (or use two bowls if necessary), combine all these ingredients along with the pepperoncinis and grated parmesan cheese.
Step 3: Toss and Serve
Drizzle the homemade Italian dressing over the salad and toss well to combine. Adjust the seasoning by adding more cheese or dressing to taste. Serve immediately or refrigerate if needed.
Pro Tip: Store any leftover dressing in a mason jar for up to two weeks!
Helpful Tips for Massive Classic Italian Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, crispy lettuce and vine-ripened tomatoes will make a big difference in the flavor.
- Chop Evenly: Try to keep the salad components evenly sized for a uniform texture and easier eating.
- Customize the Salad: Add ingredients like artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or even grilled chicken to make this salad your own.
Cooking Tips for the Best Massive Classic Italian Salad
- Best Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality olive oil and freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor.
- Chill the Salad: If possible, chill your salad bowl in the fridge before serving. A cool, crisp salad is incredibly refreshing!
- Equipment Hack: If you don’t have a large enough mixing bowl, divide the ingredients into two bowls to toss and mix evenly.
Serving Suggestions for Massive Classic Italian Salad
This salad is great as a side dish, but it can also stand on its own as a light main course. Serve it alongside:
- Grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein
- A crusty loaf of Italian bread to soak up the dressing
- A refreshing glass of chilled white wine to complement the fresh flavors.
Related Recipe: Pair your salad with this tasty Sausage Balls with Red Lobster Mix for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Nutritional Information
Per serving:
- Calories: 230
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
This salad is packed with fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and protein, making it a well-balanced and satisfying dish.
Storage and Leftovers for Massive Classic Italian Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately. Keep the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. The dressing will stay fresh for up to two weeks in a sealed jar. Reheat Tip: If you added grilled meat or other warm toppings, reheat those separately and add them back to the cold salad just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Massive Classic Italian Salad
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the salad ingredients and dressing separately. Toss them together just before serving to keep everything fresh. - What’s the best lettuce for this salad?
Romaine is ideal due to its crisp texture, but you can also use iceberg or a spring mix. - Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative and swap the salami for a plant-based protein. - How long does the dressing last?
The homemade dressing can last up to two weeks when stored in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
I hope this Massive Classic Italian Salad brings a bit of Italy to your table! It’s a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that everyone will love. Don’t forget to share your variations or add-ins in the comments. Enjoy!
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Massive Classic Italian Salad Recipe – Flavorful, Easy & Hearty
Description
Welcome to this delicious journey of making a Massive Classic Italian Salad! If you love big, hearty salads that are easy to customize and packed with flavor, then this is the perfect recipe for you. This recipe is ideal for any gathering, offering all the delightful flavors of Italy. Let’s dive into the world of vibrant, fresh ingredients that make this salad so irresistible!
Ingredients
For the Italian Dressing:
- ½ cup olive oil
- 3 Tbsp white vinegar (substitute with rice vinegar or lemon juice)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp sea salt
For the Salad:
- 14–16 ounces romaine leaf lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 cup pepperoncinis
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups salami, cut into strips
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 6 ounces grated parmesan cheese (about ½ to 1 cup, depending on taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine olive oil, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, oregano, black pepper, and sea salt. Whisk thoroughly to blend. Set aside and stir before using.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
Chop the romaine lettuce, slice the olives and onions, halve the cherry tomatoes, and cut the salami into strips. In a large mixing bowl (or use two bowls if necessary), combine all these ingredients along with the pepperoncinis and grated parmesan cheese.
Step 3: Toss and Serve
Drizzle the homemade Italian dressing over the salad and toss well to combine. Adjust the seasoning by adding more cheese or dressing to taste. Serve immediately or refrigerate if needed.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, crispy lettuce and vine-ripened tomatoes will make a big difference in the flavor.
- Chop Evenly: Try to keep the salad components evenly sized for a uniform texture and easier eating.
- Customize the Salad: Add ingredients like artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or even grilled chicken to make this salad your own.
