Name: Italian Chopped Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1/2 shallot, finely chopped; 1 garlic clove, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 small head iceberg lettuce; 1 head radicchio; 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered; 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained (about 15 ounces); 4 ounces fresh pearl mozzarella, drained; 4 ounces provolone cheese, diced; 5 pepperoncini, stemmed and sliced; 1 teaspoon oregano, for garnish; Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 46 reviews

The Italian Chopped Salad Recipe is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings together crisp greens, tangy cheeses, and zesty vinaigrette for a truly irresistible experience. Perfectly balanced with fresh iceberg lettuce and radicchio, juicy cherry tomatoes, and pepperoncini’s gentle kick, this salad is not just a side—it’s a celebration of Italian-inspired freshness that can brighten up any meal. Whether you’re craving a light lunch or a colorful accompaniment to your dinner, this salad is simple to throw together yet impressive in taste and texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with light brown chickpeas is placed near a white bowl with small white round balls of mozzarella cheese. Near them is a white plate with yellow pickled peppers. A large round green iceberg lettuce and a purple radicchio lettuce head sit nearby. Bright red tomatoes on the vine spread across the scene, with a small white bowl of dried herbs next to them. Thin slices of purple onion are in a clear glass bowl, and small cubes of light yellow cheese are in another clear bowl. A glass measuring cup contains a greenish-yellow dressing with a whisk inside. A lemon half is visible in the background, and everything is arranged on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of the Italian Chopped Salad Recipe lies in using simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in the dish’s delightful complexity. From crisp lettuces to creamy cheeses and a zesty dressing, every element adds a burst of color and flavor that keeps your taste buds eager for more.

Extra-virgin olive oil: This forms the rich, fruity base of the lemon vinaigrette, providing smoothness and depth.
Lemon juice: Adds a bright, citrusy zing that cuts through the richness of the cheese and oil.
Red wine vinegar: Brings a subtle acidity to balance the flavors perfectly.
Shallot, finely chopped: Offers a mild onion flavor that enhances the dressing without overpowering it.
Garlic clove, finely chopped: Adds that unmistakable savory punch to elevate the vinaigrette.
Dried oregano: Imparts an earthy, herbal note crucial to authentic Italian flavor.
Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings out the natural sweetness in the vegetables.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of sharpness and warmth in the background.
Iceberg lettuce: Provides a crisp, refreshing crunch with its mild, watery texture.
Radicchio: Delivers a beautiful color contrast and a slightly bitter taste to balance the salad.
Red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a slight bite and vibrant purple hue.
Cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered: Burst with juiciness and sumptuously sweet flavor.
Chickpeas, rinsed and drained: Give the salad a hearty, protein-packed touch.
Fresh pearl mozzarella, drained: Creamy and smooth, this cheese adds luscious richness.
Provolone cheese, diced: Offers a mild, smoky flavor and a firmer texture to contrast with mozzarella.
Pepperoncini, stemmed and sliced: Brings a piquant, slightly tangy heat that wakes up the palate.

How to Make Italian Chopped Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette

Start by whisking together extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, finely chopped shallot, garlic, dried oregano, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl. This dressing is the secret behind the salad’s vibrant flavor – it beautifully ties all the ingredients together with a lively, citrusy punch and herbaceous depth.

Step 2: Chop the Lettuce and Radicchio

Next, cut the small head of iceberg lettuce in half lengthwise and carefully remove the core. Then slice the halves into thin, 1/4-inch strips. Repeat these same steps with the radicchio. This technique ensures that every bite is a perfect blend of crisp and slightly bitter leafy goodness – essential elements in the Italian Chopped Salad Recipe.

Step 3: Combine the Fresh Ingredients

In a large salad bowl, toss the sliced iceberg lettuce and radicchio with halved cherry tomatoes, rinsed chickpeas, pearl mozzarella, diced provolone, thinly sliced red onion, and pepperoncini slices. This colorful mix creates an inviting medley of textures and flavors, from creamy cheeses to zesty vegetables and lightly spicy peppers.

Step 4: Dress and Toss the Salad

Drizzle the freshly made lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Season with additional sea salt and black pepper to taste, then toss once more. Finally, sprinkle a pinch of dried oregano on top for that authentic Italian flourish that visually and aromatically elevates the dish.

How to Serve Italian Chopped Salad Recipe

A large wooden bowl holds a colorful salad with six clear layers visible from above. Starting from the top left, there is a layer of bright red sliced cherry tomatoes, followed by deep purple shredded radicchio on the top right. Below the tomatoes, there is a light green shredded lettuce layer. Next to the lettuce, there are small white mozzarella balls mixed with cubed yellow cheese. Below the radicchio, thin slices of yellow pepper rings add brightness. On the bottom right, light brown chickpeas are layered beside thin, circular slices of purple red onion. Two white large spoons are held by woman's hands on either side of the bowl as if ready to mix the salad. The bowl is on a white marbled surface with a small glass dish holding a yellowish dressing and a silver spoon nearby, and soft blue cloth in the upper right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make this Italian Chopped Salad Recipe truly pop, consider garnishing with a few fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. These touches add extra layers of fragrance and savoriness while making the salad look even more irresistible on the table.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with classic Italian mains like wood-fired pizza or garlic-laden pasta dishes. It also complements summer cookout fare such as grilled chicken or sausages perfectly, providing a crisp, refreshing counterbalance to richer, smoky foods.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, assemble this salad in clear glass bowls or mason jars to show off the vibrant layers of color. Alternatively, serve it on a large wooden board alongside freshly sliced crusty bread and olives for a communal, rustic Italian feast vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Italian Chopped Salad Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible, then toss just before serving to maintain the crispness of the greens.

Freezing

Because of the fresh vegetables and cheese, this salad is not suitable for freezing as it will lose its texture and flavor. It’s better to prepare fresh whenever possible for the best taste experience.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be served cold, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy any leftovers chilled or let them come to room temperature before serving for the fullest flavor.

FAQs

Can I substitute the cheeses in this Italian Chopped Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! While pearl mozzarella and provolone add a creamy and mild smokiness, you can swap them for fresh burrata, feta, or even cubed aged cheddar for different flavor profiles.

Is this salad vegan friendly?

This recipe includes cheese, but you can easily make it vegan by omitting the cheeses and using a plant-based vinaigrette. Chickpeas and fresh vegetables alone make it hearty and satisfying.

How can I make this salad more filling?

Adding protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu cubes can transform this salad into a complete meal while keeping it light and nutritious.

Can I prepare the salad in advance?

You can chop the vegetables and make the dressing in advance, but it is best to toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to preserve freshness and crunch.

What if I don’t have radicchio?

If radicchio is unavailable, substitute with red leaf lettuce or arugula for a slightly different but equally enjoyable flavor and color contrast.

Final Thoughts

If you want a salad that’s bursting with freshness, vibrant colors, and bold Italian flavors, this Italian Chopped Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s so simple to make yet endlessly satisfying, perfect whether you’re looking for a light meal or a show-stopping side. Go ahead and give it a whirl—you’ll find yourself reaching for this delicious salad time and time again!

Italian Chopped Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need