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Romaine Lettuce Salad Italian Chopped Guide for Fresh Crunch

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This Italian chopped salad with romaine is a fresh, crunchy, and colorful bowl loaded with vegetables, cheeses, and optional protein. It’s tossed in a zesty homemade dressing made from olive oil, red wine vinegar, and herbs. Perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch, this salad delivers bold Italian flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the salad:

  • 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • 2 cups chopped radicchio or red cabbage
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • ½ cup chopped cucumber
  • ½ cup shredded carrots
  • ¼ cup sliced red onion
  • ½ cup sliced black or green olives
  • ½ cup chopped roasted red peppers
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup diced chicken ham or turkey pepperoni (optional, as a meat substitute)

For the dressing:

  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the romaine, radicchio, cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, cucumber, carrots, red onion, olives, roasted red peppers, mozzarella, Parmesan, and diced chicken ham or turkey pepperoni if using.

In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Serve immediately or chill for 15–30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

  • Use a sharp knife or salad chopper for even cuts—uniform pieces improve both texture and presentation.

  • Prep in batches: Store undressed salad in separate containers and keep dressing in a jar for easy grab-and-go lunches.

  • Make it vegetarian or vegan by omitting meats and using dairy-free cheeses.

  • Add crunch with sunflower seeds or croutons just before serving.

  • Double the dressing to have extra on hand—it pairs well with pasta salad or grilled veggies.

  • Great for parties: Serve in a large bowl and let guests add dressing and toppings to customize their own servings.

Find it online: https://claradelish.com/romaine-lettuce-salad-italian-chopped-guide-for-fresh-crunch/