Simple Italian Salad

Craving a vibrant, refreshing salad that’s ready in minutes? This Simple Italian Salad is your answer! Fresh vegetables, bright herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette combine for a dish that’s perfect as a light lunch, a side for dinner, or even a potluck contribution. Inspired by the simplicity of Italian flavors, this salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Simple Italian Salad

This Simple Italian Salad is more than just a salad; it’s a culinary experience! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:

• Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors.
• Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.
• Customizable with your favorite vegetables.
• A beautiful and colorful addition to any table.
• Budget-friendly and uses readily available ingredients.
• Far less cleanup than a complicated multi-course meal.
• An irresistible blend of textures and tastes.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Simple Italian Salad. Remember, the fresher the ingredients, the better the flavor!

• Mixed Greens: 150g / 5 oz (choose your favorite blend, like romaine, spinach, or mixed baby greens)
• Cherry Tomatoes: 250g / 1 cup, halved (select firm, ripe tomatoes for the best sweetness)
• Cucumber: 1 medium, peeled and sliced (English cucumbers are great because of their thin skin and fewer seeds)
• Red Onion: 1/4 medium, thinly sliced (soak in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the bite)
• Bell Pepper: 1/2, any color, seeded and chopped (pick firm, bright bell peppers)
• Kalamata Olives: 50g / 1/4 cup, pitted and halved (adds a salty, briny flavor)
• Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup, chopped (find fresh herbs at local farmers markets for the best aroma)
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 60ml / 1/4 cup (use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor)
• Red Wine Vinegar: 30ml / 2 tablespoons (adds a tangy kick)
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon (toast the oregano lightly in a dry pan to unlock its aroma)
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste (freshly ground black pepper is highly recommended)

A mini guide for spices: toast them lightly to unlock their flavor.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Watermelon Salad with Feta – A refreshing summer salad with a sweet and salty twist.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools can make preparing this Simple Italian Salad even easier!

• Large Bowl: For tossing all the ingredients together.
• Cutting Board: For chopping the vegetables safely.
• Sharp Knife: A good knife makes prepping the ingredients quicker and easier.
• Small Bowl or Jar: To whisk or shake the vinaigrette.

No fancy equipment needed; just the basics!

Recipe Details

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect when making this Simple Italian Salad:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

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• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

Scale up for a crowd; halve for solo dining.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Simple Italian Salad!

Prepare the Vegetables

1. First, wash and dry all the vegetables thoroughly.
2. Next, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion.
3. After that, chop the bell pepper into bite-sized pieces and roughly chop the fresh basil.

Make the Vinaigrette

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.

Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and Kalamata olives.
2. Then, pour the vinaigrette over the salad.
3. Gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Serve

1. Garnish with fresh basil.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

CHECK OUT: Peach Burrata Salad – A delightful combination of sweet peaches and creamy burrata cheese!

Tips for Success

Follow these tips to ensure your Simple Italian Salad is a masterpiece!

• Don’t overdress the salad: Add the vinaigrette gradually to prevent it from becoming soggy.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil makes a huge difference in flavor.
• Soak the red onion: Soaking the red onion in cold water for 10 minutes mellows its bite.
• Taste and adjust: Adjust the salt, pepper, and vinegar to your liking.
• Prepare ahead: You can chop the vegetables ahead of time, but dress the salad just before serving.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to switch things up? Here are some tasty variations for your Simple Italian Salad:

• Cheese: Add feta, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
• Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or white beans for a heartier salad.
• Vegetables: Add artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Vinaigrette: Use balsamic vinegar or lemon juice instead of red wine vinegar.
• Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Simple Italian Salad

This Simple Italian Salad pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. Consider these options:

• Grilled chicken or fish.
• Crusty bread with olive oil.
• A light pasta dish.
• As a side to your favorite pizza.
• A glass of chilled sparkling water with lemon.

A fantastic addition to any summer barbecue!

Health Benefits

This Simple Italian Salad is packed with nutrients! Here are some of the health benefits:

• Mixed Greens: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, plus fiber.
• Cherry Tomatoes: A good source of antioxidants and vitamin C.
• Cucumber: Hydrating and low in calories.
• Olive Oil: Contains healthy fats and antioxidants.

Enjoy a salad that’s both delicious and good for you!

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to properly store and enjoy your leftover Simple Italian Salad:

• Storage: Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store vinaigrette separately.
• Reheating: Not applicable, as this salad is best served fresh and cold.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the vegetables will become soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? We’ve got answers!

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can chop the vegetables ahead of time, but dress the salad just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.

What if I don’t have red wine vinegar?

You can substitute with balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor.

Can I add cheese to this salad?

Absolutely! Feta, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese are all great additions.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.

How can I make this salad heartier?

Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or white beans for extra protein.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick snapshot of the nutritional content of this Simple Italian Salad:

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: Approximately 200
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 3g

Exact stats need a nutrition calculator.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more vibrant salads and flavorful dishes? Check out these other amazing recipes:

• Greek Style Chicken Salad – A Mediterranean-inspired salad with grilled chicken and a tangy lemon dressing.
• Chickpea Caprese Salad – A fresh and protein-packed twist on the classic Caprese salad.
• Avocado Caprese Salad – Creamy avocado adds a healthy and delicious twist to this classic Italian salad.

Conclusion

This Simple Italian Salad is a fast, flavorful, and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it a crowd-pleaser every time. Whip it up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece!

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Happy cooking!

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