Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Vinaigrette Recipe

Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette is a culinary explosion that dances on your taste buds. Picture this: vibrant greens, crunchy veggies, and zesty dressing all coming together in one bowl of joy. Each bite sings with flavor, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.

Now, let me take you down memory lane. I remember the first time I made this salad for a family barbecue. It was a hot summer day, and the aroma of grilled meats filled the air. I wanted something refreshing to balance out the hearty dishes. Little did I know, my Loaded Italian Salad would steal the show! This salad isn’t just food; it’s an experience, perfect for summer picnics or cozy family dinners. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable flavor adventure!

Ingredients for Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Mixed Greens: A combination of arugula, spinach, and romaine brings crunch and freshness to your salad.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy cherry tomatoes add color and a burst of flavor; choose vibrant red ones for best results.
• Cucumber: Sliced thinly, cucumbers bring a refreshing crunch; pick firm ones for maximum crispness.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion offers a mild sweetness and beautiful color contrast.
• Bell Peppers: A mix of red, yellow, and green peppers adds sweetness and vibrancy; they’re great for visual appeal.
• Pitted Olives: Kalamata or black olives introduce a savory depth; ensure they’re pitted to avoid surprises!
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta gives that creamy richness; opt for quality cheese for the best taste.

For the Dressing:

• Red Wine Vinegar: This vinegar provides the zingy base for your vinaigrette; select quality brands for optimal flavor.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and smoothness; make sure it’s fresh!
• Dijon Mustard: A spoonful of Dijon helps emulsify the dressing while adding a slight kick.
• Honey: A drizzle of honey balances the acidity with its natural sweetness. honey glazed salmon.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; adjust according to your taste!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Veggies

Start by washing all your veggies thoroughly under cold water. Slice cherry tomatoes in half, chop cucumbers into bite-sized pieces, and thinly slice bell peppers and red onion.

Step 2: Mix the Greens

In a large bowl, combine mixed greens as your base. Adding different greens creates an exciting texture that makes every bite interesting!

Step 3: Add Colorful Ingredients

Gently fold in sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, olives, and crumbled feta cheese into the greens. Each ingredient should contribute its unique flavor profile.

Step 4: Whisk Up That Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined. You want it emulsified so every drop clings to those fresh ingredients!

Step 5: Dress Your Salad

Drizzle your zesty red wine vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat everything evenly without crushing those delicate greens.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer your beautifully colorful salad onto plates or bowls. Garnish with extra feta if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy it as a light meal or serve alongside grilled meats—your guests will be raving about it!

Now you have everything you need to create this stunning Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette that will impress everyone at your next gathering! Don’t forget to save room in your belly because this dish is not only nourishing but downright delicious! crispy toasted ravioli.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by chopping all your veggies and prepping your proteins first. Assemble the salad while whisking up the zesty red wine vinaigrette. Toss it together right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients! Try adding grilled chicken for protein, swapping out bell peppers for cucumbers, or tossing in some olives for an extra kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To maintain freshness, keep the vinaigrette separate until you’re ready to enjoy the salad again.

After making this loaded Italian salad for a family gathering, I received rave reviews from my aunt who claimed it was “better than her secret pasta recipe.” Now that’s a compliment worth savoring!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette?

To create a delicious Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette, gather fresh vegetables like romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers. You will also need olives, pepperoncini, salami, and mozzarella cheese for that authentic Italian flavor. sun-dried tomato chicken gnocchi For the zesty vinaigrette, combine red wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. This combination of ingredients will create a vibrant and satisfying salad that’s perfect for any occasion.

How can I make Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette vegetarian-friendly?

To make your Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the salami. Replace it with chickpeas or marinated artichoke hearts to maintain protein while enhancing flavor. You can also add more vegetables like cucumber or radishes for added crunch. The zesty vinaigrette remains the same, ensuring your salad is still bursting with flavor without sacrificing its Italian roots.

Can I prepare Loaded Italian Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette ahead of time. Chop all your ingredients and store them separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Mix the vinaigrette and store it in a jar in the refrigerator. Combine everything just before serving. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep or gatherings where you want to save time while still serving a delicious dish.

How long does Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette last in the fridge?

Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette can last up to three days in the refrigerator if stored properly. To keep it fresh longer, avoid mixing the salad with the dressing until you’re ready to eat. If you’ve already combined them, consume within two days to enjoy optimal taste and texture. Always check for freshness before serving leftovers to ensure they are safe to eat.

Conclusion for Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette :

In conclusion, Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients and bold flavors. With its customizable options for both meat lovers and vegetarians alike, this salad is perfect for any occasion. Preparing it ahead of time adds convenience without compromising taste, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or entertaining guests. Enjoy this vibrant salad as a main course or a side dish at your next gathering! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

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Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette

• Author: Ava
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Italian

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Description

Loaded Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette is a vibrant and flavorful dish that transforms fresh ingredients into a delightful experience. This salad features a mix of crunchy greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and savory feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty homemade vinaigrette. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light lunch, it’s nutritious and easily customizable to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy the refreshing burst of flavors in every bite!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, romaine)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced
• 1/2 cup pitted olives (Kalamata or black)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Wash and prepare all vegetables: halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumbers, slice bell peppers and red onion.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens as the base.
3. Fold in cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
4. In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
5. Drizzle vinaigrette over the salad before serving and toss gently to coat.
6. Serve immediately for the freshest experience.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 370mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. Customize by swapping out veggies based on your preference or what you have on hand. Store leftovers in an airtight container without dressing for up to three days.