What is the most popular Italian salad?

The most popular Italian salad globally is the Caprese salad, known for its simple ingredients: fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. However, The Best Italian Chopped Salad is gaining traction for its complexity, variety, and heartiness—making it a favorite among those seeking more texture and bold flavor in a salad.

What is an Italian chopped salad?

An Italian chopped salad is a flavorful mix of vegetables, herbs, cheeses, and legumes all chopped into bite-sized pieces for even flavor distribution. Unlike traditional tossed salads, chopped salads like The Best Italian Chopped Salad ensure every forkful includes a bit of everything—greens, crunch, tang, and creaminess.

What is the famous chopped salad?

The famous chopped salad often refers to the La Scala Chopped Salad, made iconic in Beverly Hills. It features iceberg lettuce, salami, mozzarella, and garbanzo beans. The Best Italian Chopped Salad offers a more Mediterranean and vegetarian twist—omitting meat while maximizing flavor with roasted vegetables, olives, and two types of cheese.

What is the national salad of Italy?

While Italy doesn't have an official national salad, the Caprese is widely recognized as its culinary representative. That said, chopped salads have become a modern staple in many Italian-American kitchens. The Best Italian Chopped Salad honors that tradition with authentic ingredients and timeless appeal.

The Best Italian Chopped Salad Bursting with Mediterranean Flavor

Description

The Best Italian Chopped Salad blends bold Mediterranean flavors into a healthy, vibrant dish ready in 20 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Salad:
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 can (15 oz) garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/3 cup chopped roasted red bell peppers
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced pepperoncini
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, halved
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup chopped grilled artichoke hearts
- 1/2 cup diced English cucumber
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, sliced into ribbons
- 1/2 cup halved mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup shaved parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 large garlic clove, minced or pressed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, garbanzo beans, roasted red peppers, pepperoncini, olives, cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, cucumber, red onion, fresh basil, mozzarella, and parmesan. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a bit of salt and pepper until emulsified.
Combine: Pour your desired amount of dressing over the salad and toss well to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve: Serve immediately or chill slightly before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 00 minutes
Category: Healthy Salad Recipes
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: Italian-inspired