Italian Chop-chop Salad Recipe

There's nothing quite like the fresh, zesty flavors of an Italian Chop-Chop Salad to brighten up your meal. Packed with crisp vegetables, savory meats, and a tangy homemade dressing, this salad is a feast of textures and tastes in every bite. It's the perfect balance of hearty and refreshing, making it a great choice for lunch, dinner, or even as a side dish.

this Recipe

I first fell in love with this salad during a trip to Italy, where I stumbled upon a small trattoria serving the most incredible chopped salad. Since then, I've recreated my own version, loaded with all the classic Italian ingredients I adore. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or just need a quick, nutritious meal, this salad is sure to impress.

Why You'll Love This Italian Chop-Chop Salad

Get ready to fall head over heels for this vibrant and delicious salad. Not only is it easy to make, but it's also bursting with fresh, bold flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

First, this salad is incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on what you have on hand—swap in different proteins, cheeses, or veggies to suit your taste.

It's also quick and easy to prepare. With just a bit of chopping and tossing, you’ll have a restaurant-quality salad in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Plus, it's nutritious yet satisfying. The mix of lean proteins, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats makes this a well-rounded meal that keeps you full without weighing you down.

And let’s not forget the irresistible homemade dressing. Made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Italian herbs, it ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Italian Chop-Chop Salad comes from its carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a key role in delivering the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Romaine lettuce and radicchio form the crisp, slightly bitter base of the salad. Their sturdy leaves hold up well to the hearty toppings and tangy dressing.

Genoa salami and prosciutto add a rich, savory depth. Their salty, slightly spicy flavors contrast beautifully with the freshness of the vegetables. You can also use turkey or grilled chicken for a lighter option.

Provolone and Parmesan cheese bring the perfect blend of creaminess and nuttiness. The provolone offers a mild, smooth texture, while the Parmesan provides a sharp, umami punch.

Chickpeas are a fantastic addition, giving the salad extra protein and a slight buttery texture. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you can skip them or replace them with chopped cucumbers for extra crunch.

For the homemade dressing, a simple blend of extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a tangy, herby coating that enhances every bite.

How To Make This Italian Chop-Chop Salad

Making this Italian Chop-Chop Salad is as easy as it gets. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect mix of flavors and textures.

Start by chopping all your ingredients into bite-sized pieces. The key to a great chopped salad is uniformity—every bite should include a little bit of everything. Dice the romaine, radicchio, salami, prosciutto, provolone, and any other add-ins you’re using.

Next, drain and rinse the chickpeas to remove excess sodium. If you prefer a bit more texture, you can lightly toast them in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.

Now, make your homemade Italian dressing. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Shake or whisk until well combined and emulsified.

In a large salad bowl, combine all the chopped ingredients. Pour the dressing over the top and toss well to ensure every piece is coated with that delicious, tangy flavor.

Finally, top with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this salad stores well for later enjoyment. Keep the undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If already dressed, consume within 24 hours for the best texture.

For meal prep, store the dressing separately in a small jar. This way, you can add it right before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and fresh.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this salad is its flexibility. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:

For a vegetarian version, swap out the meats for grilled mushrooms or artichoke hearts. You’ll still get that delicious umami depth without the protein.

If you prefer a lighter dressing, try using lemon juice instead of vinegar for a brighter, fresher flavor.

Want to make it heartier? Add some cooked pasta, quinoa, or farro for a more filling dish that works as a complete meal.

For a spicy kick, toss in pepperoncini or red pepper flakes to bring a little heat to each bite.

However you customize it, this Italian Chop-Chop Salad is sure to be a hit. Experiment with your favorite ingredients and enjoy!

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