Chopped Italian Salad
This is that clean-out-the-fridge bowl that somehow tastes like a loaded sub… but lighter, faster, and way cheaper.
Ingredients
- 1 large head romaine lettuce chopped small
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes quartered
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- ¼ cup red onion finely chopped
- ½ cup banana peppers sliced
- 1 to 1½ cups chopped deli meat turkey, ham, salami, or mix
Simple Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Chop everything small
- This is the secret. You want every bite to have a little of everything—think “fork-ready,” not big leafy chunks.
- Add to a large bowl
- Toss the romaine, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, banana peppers, and deli meat together.
- Dress it
- Drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar right over the top. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Toss well
- Really mix it so everything gets coated. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes so the flavors soak in.
- Serve immediately
- Or chill for 10–15 minutes if you want it extra crisp and refreshing.
Notes
Add shredded mozzarella or provolone → now it’s giving Italian sub energy
Toss in croutons or crushed crackers for crunch
Swap dressing with a spoon of mayo + vinegar for a creamy grinder vibe
Make ahead: keep dressing separate until serving so it stays crisp
Toss in croutons or crushed crackers for crunch
Swap dressing with a spoon of mayo + vinegar for a creamy grinder vibe
Make ahead: keep dressing separate until serving so it stays crisp