Italian Chop-chop Salad Recipe

There's something incredibly satisfying about a big, hearty Italian Chop-Chop Salad bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. Crunchy lettuce, crisp bell peppers, savory salami, and creamy mozzarella come together in a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

this Recipe

I first discovered this salad at a small Italian deli, where they tossed everything together right in front of me. One bite and I was hooked! Now, it’s my go-to for an easy weeknight meal, a potluck favorite, and even a healthy lunch option.

Why You'll Love This Italian Chop-Chop Salad

Get ready to fall in love with this incredibly fresh and flavorful salad! It’s the perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and zesty Italian goodness.

First, it's quick and easy. With just a little chopping and tossing, you’ll have a meal-ready salad in under 20 minutes—perfect for busy nights.

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftover veggies and meats.

Not to mention, it's nutritious and filling. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this salad will keep you satisfied without feeling heavy.

And let’s not forget the homemade dressing! A simple yet bold vinaigrette brings all the flavors together in the best way.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Italian Chop-Chop Salad lies in the fresh, high-quality ingredients. Every component plays a role in building bold and delicious flavors.

Romaine lettuce and radicchio form the base, offering the perfect combination of crispness and slight bitterness to balance out the richer toppings.

Salami and pepperoni bring in that classic Italian deli flavor. Their salty, slightly spicy bite pairs beautifully with the fresh veggies.

Mozzarella and provolone cheese add a creamy, mild contrast to the sharpness of the meats and dressing. I like using fresh mozzarella balls for extra creaminess!

Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion provide juicy sweetness, crunch, and a hint of sharpness to round out the salad’s texture and taste.

A homemade Italian vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and Italian herbs ties everything together with a zesty kick.

How To Make This Italian Chop-Chop Salad

Making this delicious salad is a breeze! Here’s how to bring it all together.

Start by chopping your romaine lettuce and radicchio into bite-sized pieces. The finer you chop, the better the flavors mix together in each bite.

Next, slice your salami and pepperoni into thin strips and cube your mozzarella and provolone. Keeping the pieces uniform ensures a balanced bite every time.

Dice the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion into small, evenly sized pieces. This helps them distribute evenly throughout the salad.

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and Italian seasoning to create your flavorful dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Toss everything together in a large bowl, making sure each piece is well-coated with the dressing. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, store them properly to keep the salad fresh.

For best results, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. Store chopped ingredients in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

If already dressed, the salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours before it starts to wilt.

For meal prep, layer ingredients in a jar, placing wet ingredients like tomatoes at the bottom and lettuce on top. Add dressing just before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

This salad is incredibly adaptable! Here are some fun variations to try:

Want to make it vegetarian? Swap out the meats for chickpeas or marinated artichokes for a satisfying plant-based version.

For a low-carb twist, skip the croutons and add extra cheese and nuts like almonds or pine nuts for crunch.

If you love a little heat, add banana peppers or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

And for an extra protein boost, toss in grilled chicken or shrimp—it makes a fantastic hearty meal!

Experiment with different cheeses, meats, and dressings to make it your own. No matter how you mix it up, this Italian Chop-Chop Salad is always a hit!

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