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famous italian chopped salad

Famous Italian Chopped Salad with Creamy Italian Dressing

This Famous Italian Chopped Salad is the perfect balance of crisp greens, fresh veggies, creamy cheese, and savory meats, all tossed in a tangy, homemade creamy Italian dressing. Packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures, it’s a must-have for pasta night, game day, or anytime you crave a hearty, flavor-packed salad!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Famous Chopped Italian Salad
  • 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup radicchio, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
  • 1/2 cup garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup pepperoncini, sliced
  • 1/4 cup Genoa salami or prosciutto, finely chopped
Creamy Italian Dressing

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, toss together all salad ingredients.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss well, and serve immediately.

Notes

How to Serve It

This salad is a showstopper on its own, but if you want to go full Italian feast mode, serve it with:
  • A crusty loaf of garlic bread
  • A bowl of pasta (because carbs + salad = happiness)
  • A charcuterie board for the ultimate appetizer spread

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Italian chopped salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you’re meal prepping or making it ahead:
  • Dressing: Store separately in a jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. Give it a good shake before using!
  • Salad ingredients: Chop everything ahead of time, but wait to add the dressing until just before serving.
  • Leftovers? The dressed salad will keep in an airtight container for about a day, but it will soften over time.