If you’re in the mood for a quick and delicious meal, this Easy Antipasto Salad is a perfect choice. With its vibrant mix of flavors, it’s a refreshing dish that you can whip up in no time. Packed with savory meats, tangy cheeses, and crisp vegetables, this salad is not just a side dish but a delightful meal on its own. Ideal for busy weeknights or a casual get-together, it brings a taste of Italy to your table with minimal effort.
Steps
- In a large bowl, combine bite-sized pieces of Genoa salami, sopressata, sharp provolone, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and drained artichokes. Add sliced roasted red peppers and incorporate about three tablespoons of the juice from the red pepper jar. Stir in the chopped Kalamata and green olives.
- Pour extra-virgin olive oil over the combined ingredients, followed by the red wine vinegar. Season the mixture with freshly-ground black pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Just before serving, tear fresh basil leaves into small pieces and gently incorporate them into the salad. Adjust seasoning if needed before presenting the dish.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Genoa salami, diced
- 8 ounces sopressata or similar hard salami, diced
- 8 ounces sharp provolone cheese, diced
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 (14-ounce) can artichokes, drained and diced
- ½ (12-ounce) jar roasted red peppers
- ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives, coarsely chopped
- ¼ cup pitted green olives, chopped
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
Nutritional Values
Calories: 3830 | Total Fat: 290g | Saturated Fat: 130g | Cholesterol: 740mg | Sodium: 17840mg | Total Carbohydrate: 80g | Dietary Fiber: 20g | Total Sugars: 20g | Protein: 220g | Vitamin C: 160mg | Calcium: 3230mg | Iron: 10mg | Potassium: 3230mg
FAQ
- Can I customize the ingredients in the antipasto salad?
- Absolutely! You can adjust the ratio of meat, cheese, and vegetables according to your personal preference. Feel free to experiment with different types of salami, cheese, or even add more vegetables to suit your taste.
- What can I use instead of red wine vinegar in the dressing?
- If you’re looking for an alternative to red wine vinegar, you might try using balsamic honey dressing, as some people have found it adds a unique sweetness to the salad.
- Can I prepare the antipasto salad in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. However, it’s best to add the fresh basil just before serving to keep it vibrant and fresh.
- Is it okay to use marinated artichokes instead of water-packed ones?
- Certainly! You can substitute marinated artichokes for water-packed ones if you prefer a bit more flavor in your salad. The marinated version will add a tangy taste that complements the other ingredients well.
- How long can I store leftovers of this antipasto salad?
- While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, it can be stored in the fridge for a short period. Note that it may not retain its original texture and flavor as well over time, so it’s recommended to consume it soon after preparation.
Tips
- Customize the balance of meats, cheeses, and vegetables to suit your personal taste preferences for a more tailored antipasto salad.
- Consider using marinated artichokes instead of water-packed ones to add extra flavor to your salad.
- Before serving, tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces to enhance their aroma and flavor throughout the salad.
- For a different flavor profile, substitute balsamic honey dressing in place of red wine vinegar for a hint of sweetness.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl – To combine all the ingredients.
- Chef’s Knife – For cutting salami, cheese, tomatoes, artichokes, and other ingredients into bite-size pieces.
- Cutting Board – A sturdy surface for chopping the ingredients.
- Salad Tongs – To mix and serve the salad.
- Measuring Spoons – For measuring olive oil and red wine vinegar.
