Italian Tossed Salad Recipe

You’ll love making an Italian tossed salad! Start with chopped Romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. Add olives and sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Toss in Italian dressing, or try a homemade vinaigrette, to bring everything together. You can also include grilled chicken or tuna for extra protein. Remember to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, and only dress what you’ll eat right away. Keep exploring for more tips on customizing your salad!

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

When you try this Italian tossed salad recipe, you’ll discover several reasons why it stands out among other salads. First, its fresh ingredients create a delightful combination. Romaine lettuce gives a crunchy base, while tomatoes add sweetness. Cucumbers provide hydration, and onions contribute flavor, with Kalamata olives adding a salty depth. Additionally, you can easily adjust ingredient amounts to suit your personal taste.

Next, the preparation is easy. You can assemble it in just 15 minutes, requiring no cooking. Toss in fresh parmesan cheese for richness, and Italian dressing to bind the flavors together.

Lastly, this salad’s versatility is impressive. It pairs well with pasta dishes, complements pizza, and suits various Italian meals.

Plus, it’s low in calories, rich in fiber, and provides essential vitamins, making it a healthy choice.

Recipe

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Ingredients:

  • Romaine lettuce
  • Cherry or Roma tomatoes
  • English or regular cucumbers
  • Kalamata, black, or Italian green olives
  • Parmesan or Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • Optional: Grilled chicken, shrimp, tuna, or cured meats
  • Optional: Cannellini or garbanzo beans
  • Optional: Artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers
  • Optional: Fresh basil, oregano, garlic, and lemon juice
  • Optional: Pine nuts, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds
  • Italian dressing or homemade vinaigrette

Instructions:

  1. Start by preparing all your ingredients. Wash the Romaine lettuce thoroughly, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Slice the tomatoes and cucumbers, and if using, chop any proteins or additional vegetables you wish to include.

  2. If using red onions, chop them and soak them in cold water for about 10 minutes to reduce their sharpness. Drain and set aside.

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