Italian Salad

This Italian salad is a bright, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any meal. Packed with crisp vegetables, tangy cheese, and a simple homemade dressing, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even a light lunch on chilly evenings. I like to prep all the ingredients ahead so tossing it together takes just minutes. With fresh, seasonal produce and a few pantry staples, this Italian salad is both satisfying and adaptable, making it a reliable choice for quick, wholesome meals everyone will enjoy.

on a clean white background a bowl of fresh italia 1

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Italian salad is fresh, easy, and versatile. The combination of crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, crunchy peppers, and creamy cheese creates a balanced flavor and texture that’s crowd-pleasing. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, easy to prep ahead, and budget-friendly with ingredients you likely already have. Leftovers hold up well when stored separately, and you can switch up vegetables, proteins, or toppings to suit your taste. This recipe is Pinterest-ready for anyone looking for a cozy, colorful, and simple salad that’s flexible enough to make again and again.

on a clean white background a bowl of fresh italia

Ingredients

Tip: Use fresh, crisp lettuce for the best texture.

  • 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup cucumber, sliced
  • ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup black olives, sliced
  • ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • ¼ cup pepperoncini, sliced
  • ½ cup cooked chicken, diced (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
on a clean white background neatly arranged ingred 1

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Wash and dry all vegetables. Chop lettuce, slice tomatoes, cucumber, pepper, and onion. Dice chicken if using and slice olives and pepperoncini.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
In a large bowl, layer lettuce, vegetables, olives, and pepperoncini. Add chicken if using, and sprinkle feta cheese on top.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Drizzle dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly before serving.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

This salad is quick to prep and assemble. Chop vegetables ahead and store separately, keeping lettuce dry until ready to serve. Dressing can be made in advance, making it ideal for Pinterest users who want a fresh, fast, and healthy meal ready in minutes without any stress.

Tips & Tricks

  • Keep Greens Crisp: Dry lettuce thoroughly after washing to prevent sogginess.
  • Balanced Flavor: Taste dressing before adding; adjust vinegar or oil to your preference.
  • Cheese Control: Crumble cheese just before serving to avoid moisture softening it.
  • Olives & Peppers: Slice them thinly to evenly distribute flavor throughout the salad.

Variations

  • Meaty Version: Add diced grilled chicken, shrimp, or turkey for extra protein and a filling salad.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use chickpeas or cooked quinoa for a hearty vegetarian version without meat.
  • Ingredient Swap: Replace feta with mozzarella or goat cheese, and bell peppers with roasted red peppers.
  • Flavor Boost: Add fresh basil, parsley, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for extra taste.

Serving Suggestions

  • Quick Lunch: Serve with crusty bread and a light soup for a complete meal.
  • Family Dinner: Pair with pasta or roasted vegetables for a colorful side salad.
  • Meal Prep: Portion into containers for grab-and-go lunches; keep dressing separate.
  • Party Tray: Arrange in a large bowl with extra toppings on the side for a fun, shareable salad.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge Storage: Store chopped vegetables and dressing separately in airtight containers for 2–3 days.
  • Reheating: Serve cold; do not heat to maintain crispness.
  • Freezing: Not recommended; fresh vegetables lose texture when frozen.
  • Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare vegetables and dressing ahead of time; toss just before serving.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes (if adding chicken)
  • Rest Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition Information

Calories: 180–250 per serving
Protein: 8–20 grams
Key nutrients: fiber from vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil
Values vary depending on additions like chicken, cheese, or olives.

FAQs

Yes, prep vegetables and dressing separately and combine before serving.

Keep lettuce dry and add dressing only at serving time.

Yes, swap vegetables, cheese, or protein to suit your taste.

Add more olive oil to balance vinegar.

Best eaten within 2–3 days if stored properly.

Conclusion

This Italian salad is fresh, simple, and adaptable. Perfect for quick lunches, family dinners, or meal prep, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables, cheese, or proteins. Prepping components ahead makes assembly effortless, and the homemade dressing ties all flavors together. Save this recipe for a Pinterest-friendly salad that’s light, flavorful, and satisfying anytime you want a fresh, healthy meal.

Italian Salad
Print

Italian Salad

Recipe by Edan SalamonCourse: Salad Recipes
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

5

minutes
Calories

250

kcal

A fresh, colorful salad with crisp vegetables, optional protein, and a tangy Italian dressing. Quick, easy, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • ½ cup cucumber, sliced

  • ½ cup red bell pepper, diced

  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

  • ¼ cup black olives, sliced

  • ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled

  • ¼ cup pepperoncini, sliced

  • ½ cup cooked chicken, diced (optional)

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

  • Wash and chop vegetables. Prepare protein if using.
  • Whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • Layer lettuce, vegetables, olives, pepperoncini, chicken, and feta.
  • Drizzle dressing and toss gently before serving.

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