Antipasto Salad is a delightful medley of savory Italian flavors, combining an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables with crisp lettuce and a tangy vinaigrette. This refreshing salad is perfect as a starter, side dish, or even a light meal on its own.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, arugula, and radicchio)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and halved
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
- 4 ounces salami, sliced
- 4 ounces provolone cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup Italian parsley leaves, chopped
For the Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, marinated artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, Kalamata olives, pepperoncini peppers, sliced salami, cubed provolone cheese, torn basil leaves, and chopped Italian parsley.
3. Toss with Vinaigrette:
- Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.
- Gently toss the salad until everything is evenly coated with the vinaigrette.
4. Serve:
- Transfer the Antipasto Salad to individual serving plates or bowls.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Bread: Serve with crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
- Wine: Pair with a glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio for a classic Italian dining experience.
- Main Course: Enjoy as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or seafood.
- Charcuterie Board: Incorporate leftovers into a charcuterie board for a stylish and appetizing presentation.
Cooking Tips:
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite antipasto ingredients such as marinated mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or pickled onions.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the vinaigrette and chop the salad ingredients ahead of time for a quick and convenient assembly when ready to serve.
- Mix and Match: Experiment with different combinations of salad greens and cheeses to suit your preferences.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Vegetables: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber for overall health and well-being.
- Protein: Provides protein from the salami and provolone cheese for muscle repair and growth.
- Healthy Fats: Contains heart-healthy fats from the olive oil in the vinaigrette.
Dietary Information:
- Low-Carb: A low-carb option for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Keto-Friendly: Fits well within a ketogenic diet due to its low-carb and high-fat content.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of savory meats, tangy cheeses, and briny olives creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Quick and Easy: Simple preparation with minimal cooking required, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile: Can be enjoyed as a starter, side dish, or even a light meal for lunch or dinner.
- Satisfying and Nutritious: Packed with wholesome ingredients that satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body.
Conclusion:
Antipasto Salad is a delightful and satisfying dish that celebrates the bold flavors of Italian cuisine. Whether enjoyed as a starter, side dish, or light meal, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant colors, diverse textures, and irresistible taste. Whip up a batch of this Antipasto Salad for your next gathering or weeknight dinner and treat yourself to a taste of Italy!