Description
Ina Garten’s Italian Salad brings Mediterranean magic to your table with crisp greens, zesty pepperoncini, and tangy salami. Generous herbs and classic vinaigrette create an authentic flavor profile that transports diners straight to the Italian countryside.
Ingredients
Scale
Greens and Vegetables:
- 4 cups (0.95 liters) mixed greens (such as romaine, arugula, and radicchio)
- 1 cup (237 milliliters) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup (59 milliliters) pepperoncini, sliced
- ¼ cup (59 milliliters) sun-dried tomatoes, julienned
Proteins and Cheese:
- ¼ cup (30 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup (60 grams) croutons
- ½ cup (75 grams) black olives, pitted and sliced
Dressing Ingredients:
- ¼ cup (59 milliliters) extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all the salad ingredients: mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, diced cucumber, briny black olives, tangy pepperoncini, and richly flavored sun-dried tomatoes in a spacious mixing bowl.
- Create a vibrant vinaigrette by combining extra virgin olive oil (59 milliliters or 2 fluid ounces), robust red wine vinegar, zesty Dijon mustard, finely minced fresh garlic, dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small glass jar or mixing bowl.
- Securely fasten the lid of the jar and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds, or whisk thoroughly in the bowl until the dressing emulsifies and becomes smooth and well-integrated.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the crisp vegetable mixture, using gentle folding motions to ensure each ingredient is evenly coated without bruising the delicate greens.
- Finish the salad by generously sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese and crunchy croutons across the top, creating a delightful textural contrast.
- Serve the Mediterranean-inspired salad immediately to preserve the crisp vegetables and maintain the ideal temperature and texture.
Notes
- Elevate your salad with unexpected protein choices like smoked salmon, crispy tofu, or marinated tempeh for a surprising twist.
- Create texture magic by toasting nuts in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes, releasing deeper, richer flavors before sprinkling over your greens.
- Transform leftover roasted vegetables into delicious salad additions, bringing depth and warmth to your fresh ingredients.
- Balance flavors by combining soft cheeses with crunchy elements, ensuring each bite offers a delightful sensory experience.
- Store dressing separately when prepping salads in advance to maintain crisp vegetable textures and prevent soggy greens.
- Prep Time: 17 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: None
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg