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Classic Italian Salad

Italian salad

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5 from 1 review

This classic Italian salad is the ultimate crowd-pleasing side dish starring crisp romaine, tangy pepperoncini, and a punchy Italian vinaigrette. It’s great for pizza night, pasta dinners, or topped with protein as a delicious main dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 recipe Homemade Croutons (or use purchased or omit for gluten-free)
  • 1 recipe Homemade Italian Dressing
  • 1 Romaine heart (3 cups)
  • 5 cups butter lettuce
  • 1 handful sliced red onion
  • 1/2 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives (or halved olives)
  • 1/2 cup jarred sliced pepperoncini
  • 1/4 cup large Parmesan shavings (omit for vegan)

Instructions

  1. Make the homemade croutons (or make them in advance). 
  2. Make the Italian dressing.
  3. Chop romaine and lettuce. Thinly slice the red onion. Slice the tomatoes in half. 
  4. Place the greens in bowls, then top with the vegetables, olives, pepperoncini, Parmesan shavings, and croutons, then drizzle with dressing. Or, you can place them all together in a large serving bowl and toss with the dressing. (If making in advance, refrigerate the components separately and keep the croutons at room temperature. Bring the dressing to room temperature before serving.)