Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Big Classic Italian Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish full of crisp vegetables, tangy pepperoncini, and bold Italian flavors. Perfect as a side or a light main, this salad is quick to assemble and pairs beautifully with pasta, pizza, or grilled meats. Its zesty homemade dressing ties everything together for an irresistible bite every time.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

romaine lettucecherry tomatoescucumberred onionblack olivespepperoncinired bell pepperparmesan cheesecroutons

For the dressing:

olive oilred wine vinegarDijon mustardgarlicdried oreganoSalt and pepper

directions

Wash and dry the romaine lettuce, then chop or tear it into bite-sized pieces.

Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the red bell pepper.

In a large salad bowl, combine the lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, bell pepper, black olives, and pepperoncini.

Add shaved or grated parmesan cheese and a handful of croutons.

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salami for extra protein.

Use mixed greens or spinach instead of romaine for a twist.

Swap black olives with kalamata olives for a deeper flavor.

Include artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for added Mediterranean flair.

Use shaved Asiago or Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan.

storage/reheating

Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Store the dressing separately to keep the salad crisp.Dressed salad should be consumed within a few hours to maintain freshness.

FAQs

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What kind of croutons should I use?

Use any kind you prefer—garlic, Italian-seasoned, or homemade for extra crunch.

Can I use bottled dressing?

Yes, but homemade dressing offers fresher, more authentic flavor.

Is this salad vegan?

It can be made vegan by omitting the cheese or using a plant-based alternative.

What’s the best lettuce for Italian salad?

Romaine is traditional for its crunch and mild flavor.

Can I make this salad a meal?

Absolutely—add a protein and serve with a slice of bread or soup.

Can I prep this salad in advance?

Yes, prep the ingredients ahead and store separately. Assemble and dress just before serving.

How spicy are the pepperoncini?

They’re mildly spicy and add tanginess more than heat.

What’s a good substitute for red wine vinegar?

Try white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as alternatives.

Can I omit certain vegetables?

Yes, feel free to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Conclusion

The Big Classic Italian Salad is a fast, flavorful way to bring bold Italian taste to your table. With crisp vegetables, a tangy dressing, and endless customization options, it’s the perfect go-to for weeknights, entertaining, or any time you crave something fresh and satisfying.