Description
A vibrant and colorful salad bursting with fresh vegetables, marinated goodies, and savory proteins, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, or romaine)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, sliced
- Bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), diced
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Kalamata olives or green olives, pitted
- Marinated artichoke hearts
- Roasted red peppers
- Pepperoncini or banana peppers
- Cheese (mozzarella balls, cubed provolone, or crumbled feta)
- Turkey or chicken ham slices, rolled
- Beef or turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Olive oil
- Red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by washing your mixed greens thoroughly. If you’re using sturdier greens like romaine, tear them into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large salad bowl.
- Next, slice your cherry tomatoes in half and chop your cucumber and bell peppers. The vibrant colors of these ingredients will make your salad pop! Add them to the bowl.
- Toss in the diced red onion, olives, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and pepperoncini for that extra zing. Each bite will bring a delightful burst of flavor.
- For the proteins, layer the rolled turkey or chicken ham slices and sprinkle the cooked and crumbled bacon over the top. If you’re feeling indulgent, don’t skimp on the cheese; toss in mozzarella balls or crumbled feta.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this dressing generously over your salad and toss everything together gently to combine.
- Finally, taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary. Sometimes a dash of more salt or pepper can elevate the flavors.
- Serve immediately while the ingredients are fresh and crisp, or refrigerate for up to an hour to let the flavors meld together even more.
Notes
Consider using lower-fat cheese or a dairy-free cheese for lighter options. Omit higher-carb ingredients for low-carb alternatives.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cooking Required
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg