This simple chopped salad recipe highlights homemade Italian dressing, crunchy vegetables, and Parmesan cheese for the perfect side dish. Prepared in only 20 minutes with remarkable flavor!
Searching for a side salad to pair with all your dishes? I’m always on the lookout for an excellent green salad. So, may I introduce my favorite chopped salad recipe.
It’s elegant and concise. It begins with my homemade Italian dressing: zesty, savory, and herby. Add shallots, tomatoes, cucumber, and a kick from pepperoncini. Parmesan cheese completes the dish. Every time I serve this to guests or family, they request the recipe (no kidding!).
Why this chopped salad recipe is effective
Whenever I present this salad at a gathering, people inquire: Wow! What’s in this salad? That’s when you realize a recipe is a gem!
I’ve experimented with numerous salad recipes over the years, and this one has become a family and reader favorite. The secret is in the ingredient harmony and my zesty homemade Italian dressing recipe that transforms ordinary vegetables into something remarkable.
Key ingredients for the ideal chopped salad
– Lettuce base: I use 1 romaine heart and 5 cups of leafy lettuce for a texture contrast. Romaine gives crunch while softer lettuce imparts volume.
– Vegetables: I always opt for English cucumber: I favor these since they are mostly seedless and the skin has a mild taste. I add halved cherry tomatoes and a large shallot for a hint of onion flavor.
– Flavor boosters: The star ingredient is jarred sliced pepperoncini for spicy tang, and don’t forget the ripe green olives for briny saltiness along with fresh Parmesan cheese shavings. I prefer Castelvetrano olives for their gentle flavor.
Dressing tips
I whip the dressing by hand using a large whisk in a medium bowl: the bowl size is crucial to achieve the best emulsion. The trick is to incorporate the olive oil tablespoon by tablespoon while whisking continuously. The Dijon mustard in the dressing also aids in emulsifying it.
The flavor profile combines tangy white wine vinegar with a dash of maple syrup, plus dried herbs. I frequently make a double batch since this dressing lasts well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Serving suggestions for chopped salad
This adaptable chopped salad complements both weeknight meals and dinner parties where you wish to impress. Here are some serving ideas:
For a more filling meal, I sometimes transform this into a main dish salad by adding pan-seared chicken, hard-boiled eggs, or marinated white beans.
Storage and prep-ahead advice
This chopped salad is best enjoyed fresh, but I’ve found some hacks for meal prep:
– Same-day serving: Prepare all vegetables and dressing separately up to 4 hours in advance. Store vegetables covered in the refrigerator and bring the dressing to room temperature prior to assembling.
– Meal prep: The separate components keep well for 2-3 days when stored correctly. Keep lettuce washed and chopped in a salad spinner, and store other chopped vegetables in different containers.
Dietary information
This chopped salad recipe is vegetarian and gluten-free. For a vegan, plant-based, and dairy-free option, leave out the Parmesan cheese. (It’s still just as delicious!)
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best method to chop vegetables evenly? I use a sharp chef’s knife aiming for ½-inch pieces. Taking your time with preparation makes a significant difference in the final look.
Can I replace the homemade dressing with store-bought? While you can use bottled Italian dressing, I highly recommend trying the homemade version: it makes this salad special and takes just 5 minutes to prepare.
How do I keep the salad from becoming soggy? Always ensure your lettuce is thoroughly dried and add dressing right before serving. If serving at an event, I keep the dressing on the side and allow guests to add their own.
Favorite Chopped Salad
This chopped salad will wow everyone at the table! Homemade Italian dressing, vegetables, and Parmesan cheese come together into one remarkable salad.
Author: Sonja Overhiser
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Salad
Method: Raw
Cuisine: Italian Inspired
Ingredients:
– 1 recipe Homemade Italian Dressing
– 1 Romaine heart (3 cups)
– 5 cups leafy lettuce
– 1 large shallot
– 1 English cucumber (2 cups chopped)
– ½ cup cherry tomatoes
– ½ cup ripe green olives, halved
– ½ cup jarred sliced pepperoncini
– ¼ cup Parmesan shavings or shreds, plus more to serve
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Homemade Italian Dressing.
2. Chop romaine and lettuce. Thinly slice the shallot. Peel and chop the cucumber. Halve the tomatoes and olives.
3. Combine all the ingredients.