Antipasto Salad is a celebration of bold Mediterranean flavors, featuring tender mozzarella, rich salami, tangy marinated artichokes, and briny olives. The pepperoncini adds a zesty kick, while the homemade dressing ties everything together with a perfect balance of olive oil, garlic, and red wine vinegar. Every bite is a burst of freshness and savory goodness. This dish is perfect for a light lunch, a flavorful side, or an elegant starter for an Italian feast. It’s a low-effort yet high-impact recipe that delivers a perfect mix of textures and tastes. Serve it at your next gathering, and watch it disappear in no time!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed
- 1 medium romaine lettuce heart, chopped
- 4 ounces unsliced dry Italian salami, thinly sliced
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (about 10 ounces)
- 8 medium pickled pepperoncini peppers, sliced
- 3/4 cup pitted mixed marinated olives
- 1 (12-ounce) jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 8 ounces ciliegine (mini cherry-size mozzarella cheese balls)
Directions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside.
- Chop the romaine lettuce and place it in a large serving bowl.
- Thinly slice the salami and halve the cherry tomatoes. Add both to the bowl with the lettuce.
- Slice the pepperoncini peppers and drain the marinated olives and artichoke hearts. Add them to the salad.
- Gently toss in the mini mozzarella balls.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love This Antipasto Salad
Antipasto Salad is not just a beautiful dish; it’s also a practical one. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:
1. Bursting with Flavor
Every bite of this salad delivers a mix of bold, delicious flavors. The richness of salami, the creaminess of mozzarella, the tangy bite of pickled pepperoncini, and the briny depth of olives all work together in perfect harmony. The homemade dressing, made with olive oil, garlic, red wine vinegar, and oregano, enhances the flavors and ties everything together.
2. A Perfectly Balanced Dish
The combination of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables makes this salad both nutritious and satisfying. It is low in carbs, high in fiber, and rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making it a great choice for those who want a balanced meal without feeling too heavy.
3. Easy and Quick to Prepare
This salad requires minimal prep work. With just 15 minutes of preparation, you can have a vibrant, restaurant-quality dish ready to serve. Since most of the ingredients come pre-marinated or pre-sliced, all you need to do is assemble and toss everything together.
4. Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best things about Antipasto Salad is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Here are some variations you might enjoy:
- Vegetarian version – Skip the salami and add roasted chickpeas or grilled eggplant for a plant-based alternative.
- Spicy kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or include spicy Italian sausage.
- More crunch – Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or croutons for extra texture.
- Protein boost – Add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn it into a more substantial meal.
5. Ideal for Meal Prep and Gatherings
This salad is a great choice for meal prep because the flavors develop beautifully over time. You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving. It’s also a crowd-pleaser, making it a perfect dish for potlucks, family dinners, or holiday gatherings.
Pairing Suggestions for the Ultimate Italian Experience
To fully enjoy the flavors of this Antipasto Salad, consider pairing it with complementary dishes and beverages. Here are some ideas:
Bread and Pasta Pairings
- Rustic Italian bread – A crusty baguette or ciabatta is perfect for soaking up the dressing.
- Garlic breadsticks – Adds a crunchy, garlicky contrast to the tangy salad.
- Pasta dishes – Serve alongside classic Italian pasta recipes like spaghetti carbonara or penne arrabbiata for a complete meal.
Drink Pairings
- Red wine – A light-bodied Italian red like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the bold flavors of the salad.
- White wine – A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the fresh, tangy elements.
- Sparkling water with lemon – A refreshing non-alcoholic option that cleanses the palate.
Tips for the Best Antipasto Salad
To ensure your Antipasto Salad turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
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Use high-quality ingredients – Since this salad is made with simple, fresh ingredients, quality matters. Choose authentic Italian salami, fresh mozzarella, and marinated vegetables from a good deli for the best results.
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Let the flavors meld – If possible, let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to infuse the ingredients with flavor.
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Drain marinated ingredients properly – To avoid a watery salad, drain the olives, artichokes, and pepperoncini well before adding them to the bowl.
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Adjust the seasoning – Taste the salad before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or vinegar according to your preference.
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Keep the lettuce crisp – If preparing in advance, store the dressing separately and toss it in just before serving to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy.
Is Antipasto Salad Healthy?
Yes! This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s what makes it a great healthy option:
- Rich in antioxidants – Olives, tomatoes, and artichokes contain powerful antioxidants that support overall health.
- High in protein – Mozzarella and salami provide a good amount of protein, helping to keep you full.
- Heart-healthy fats – Olive oil and olives are excellent sources of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
- Low-carb and keto-friendly – This salad is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for keto and low-carb diets.
For those watching their sodium intake, you can opt for low-sodium olives and cheese or reduce the amount of salami.
Conclusion:
Antipasto Salad is the perfect blend of classic Italian flavors, fresh ingredients, and bold textures, making it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a dinner side, or a festive dish for gatherings, this salad delivers both taste and nutrition.
With its easy preparation, vibrant presentation, and delicious combination of ingredients, it’s no wonder that Antipasto Salad has become a favorite among Italian food lovers. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a taste of Italy in every bite!