Italian Antipasto Salad

This Italian Antipasto Salad is fresh, colorful, and packed with bold Mediterranean flavors. Loaded with crisp lettuce, savory meats, cheese, olives, tomatoes, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing, it’s the perfect hearty salad for lunch, dinner, parties, or meal prep. Every bite is crunchy, tangy, salty, and satisfying.

Ingredients

Salad

• 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup black olives
• 1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers
• 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls or cubed mozzarella
• 1/2 cup salami, sliced
• 1/2 cup turkey or ham, sliced into strips
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved

Italian Dressing

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and pepperoncini peppers.
2. Add the mozzarella, salami, turkey or ham, and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
5. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Tips

• Chill the salad ingredients before serving for the freshest taste.
• Add chickpeas for extra protein and texture.
• Use provolone cheese instead of mozzarella for a sharper flavor.
• Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Q/A

Q1: What does antipasto mean?

Antipasto is an Italian appetizer traditionally made with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and vegetables.

Q2: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare all ingredients ahead but add dressing right before serving.

Q3: How long does it last in the fridge?

Undressed salad lasts about 2–3 days refrigerated.

Q4: Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Skip the meats and add extra cheese or chickpeas.

Q5: What protein works best in antipasto salad?

Salami, pepperoni, grilled chicken, ham, or turkey are all delicious options.