Description
A vibrant and flavorful Antipasto Salad featuring a delightful combination of salami, fresh mozzarella, olives, peppers, artichoke hearts, and crisp greens, all dressed in a simple Italian seasoning and olive oil dressing. Perfect as a light meal or appetizer, this salad brings the taste of Mediterranean antipasto to your table with minimal preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
Meats and Cheeses
- 6 oz salami, sliced
- 8 oz mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained and patted dry
Vegetables and Fruits
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup green olives
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini or banana peppers, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 5 cups romaine or mixed greens, washed and chopped
Dressings and Seasonings
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Optional: shaved Parmesan cheese
- Optional: cracked black pepper
- Optional: splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Greens: Wash and dry the romaine or mixed greens thoroughly, then chop them into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl.
- Add the Salami: Fold or roll the sliced salami and arrange it evenly over the bed of greens to distribute the flavors throughout the salad.
- Incorporate Mozzarella: Drain the mozzarella balls well, pat them dry with paper towels, and scatter them evenly across the salad for creamy bursts in each bite.
- Add Vegetables: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced green bell peppers, and chopped marinated artichoke hearts to the bowl, mixing gently to combine.
- Mix in Olives and Peppers: Toss in both the Kalamata and green olives along with the sliced pepperoncini or banana peppers to add tang and a little heat.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the olive oil over the ingredients and sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly. If desired, add a splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice for a bright, acidic touch.
- Finish and Serve: Top the salad with shaved Parmesan and cracked black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for freshest flavor, or chill for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the salami and consider adding more vegetables or beans for protein.
- Use fresh mozzarella balls like bocconcini or ciliegine for the best texture and flavor.
- The salad can be prepared ahead of time but dress just before serving to keep greens crisp.
- Adjust the amount of pepperoncini or banana peppers based on your preferred spice level.
- Add a splash of balsamic glaze for a sweeter finish if desired.
