Chopped Italian Antipasto Salad

Chopped Italian Antipasto Salad is a vibrant, hearty, and flavor-packed dish inspired by traditional Italian antipasto platters. Filled with bold ingredients like cured meats, cheeses, olives, marinated vegetables, and crisp fresh greens, this salad captures the essence of Italian dining in a single bowl. It’s the perfect balance of savory, tangy, crunchy, and creamy textures.

This salad celebrates the art of simple yet elevated ingredients. Imagine the best parts of an antipasto board—salami, mozzarella, roasted peppers, artichokes, and olives—all chopped finely and tossed together with a zesty Italian dressing. Every bite offers a burst of flavor.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy, refreshing, filling, and incredibly versatile. It brings together high-quality ingredients with minimal effort, and its bold Mediterranean flavors make it unforgettable.

The dressing alone, with its combination of olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices, makes this salad extra special. It’s also a salad that never feels boring—each bite tastes slightly different and exciting.

It’s ideal for meal prep, entertaining, or enjoying a restaurant-quality dish at home. Whether served as a full meal or a side, it always feels satisfying and elegant.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This salad is a must-try because:

• It’s nutritious and filling, thanks to protein, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats.
• It’s no-cook, making it perfect for warm days or busy schedules.
• It works as both a main course or appetizer.
• It’s customizable, meaning you can adjust ingredients based on preference or diet.
• It’s a crowd pleaser—even people who don’t consider themselves “salad lovers” adore this dish.

If you’re craving something refreshing yet bold, this salad will quickly become a favorite.

Recipe Information

Category	Details
Course	Salad / Main or Side
Cuisine	Italian / Mediterranean
Prep Time	20–25 minutes
Cook Time	None
Total Time	20–25 minutes
Servings	4–6 servings
Calories (per serving)	Approx. 320–480 calories depending on meats and cheese used

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 5 cups chopped romaine lettuce (or mixed greens)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup mozzarella pearls or diced provolone
• ½ cup sliced pepperoncini or banana peppers
• ½ cup black or Kalamata olives, sliced
• ½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
• 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
• ½ cup sliced salami or pepperoni (optional but traditional)
• ½ cup diced ham or prosciutto (optional)

For the Homemade Italian Dressing

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon sugar or honey (optional, for balance)
• 1–2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cooking Directions

Since this is a no-cook dish, the steps are simple and quick:

1. Chop all salad ingredients and add them to a large mixing bowl.
2. In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk or shake dressing ingredients until combined.
3. Pour dressing over salad just before serving.
4. Toss gently to coat.
5. Serve fresh and enjoy!

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion.
2. Add Antipasto Elements: Slice olives, artichokes, roasted peppers, and pepperoncini.
3. Add Proteins: Dice salami, ham, or prosciutto if using.
4. Add Cheese: Mix in mozzarella pearls, provolone, or Parmesan.
5. Make Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and seasonings.
6. Combine: Pour dressing over salad ingredients and gently toss.
7. Serve: Immediately serve for the freshest texture.

How to Serve

Serve chilled in a large bowl or on a platter. You can enjoy this:

• As a main summer meal
• Alongside pasta dishes
• With grilled chicken, steak, or seafood
• As part of a holiday or party spread

Add warm crusty Italian bread or garlic knots for a complete experience.

Recipe Tips

• Chop ingredients evenly for the best texture and presentation.
• Add dressing only before serving to prevent sogginess.
• Fresh herbs like basil or parsley make the salad even more flavorful.
• Use high-quality olive oil and cured meats for the best results.

Variations

Style	Modifications
Low-Carb/Keto	Skip tomatoes and reduce onions; add avocado and extra cheese.
Vegetarian	Remove meats and add chickpeas or white beans.
Spicy Version	Add spicy salami, chili flakes, or spicy pickled peppers.
Luxury Version	Add burrata, truffle salt, or shaved aged Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Mediterranean Twist	Add feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh mint.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store undressed salad for 2–3 days.
• With Dressing Mixed: Best consumed within 24 hours.
• Dressing Alone: Can be stored up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Do NOT freeze—fresh vegetables will lose texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large salad bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mason jar or whisk for dressing

FAQ

1. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes—just store dressing separately and toss before serving.

2. Can I substitute the meat?
Absolutely—turkey, grilled chicken, or tofu work well.

3. Can I use bottled dressing?
Yes, but homemade dressing provides the freshest flavor.

4. Can I skip olives or artichokes?
Yes—this recipe is flexible.

Conclusion

Chopped Italian Antipasto Salad is a refreshing, hearty, and beautifully balanced dish that delivers authentic Italian flavors in every bite. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for nearly any occasion—from casual meals to holiday celebrations. Once you try it, you may find yourself making it again and again because it’s not only delicious—it’s a complete experience.