Fresh Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette

A vibrant Italian salad with zesty red wine vinaigrette is the perfect addition to any meal. It’s a delightful mix of fresh vegetables, savory meats, creamy mozzarella, and a bold dressing that gives it a refreshing yet rich flavor profile. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, a summer BBQ, or a potluck, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser.

Packed with Italian flavors, this salad makes a hearty, healthy side dish or can even serve as a main course. The combination of leafy greens, mozzarella pearls, and cured meats tossed in a zesty red wine vinaigrette elevates the salad to a new level of deliciousness. It’s quick, easy, and the perfect dish to accompany any Italian-inspired meal.

Ingredients for the Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette

To make this salad, you will need the following ingredients. We recommend using fresh, high-quality items for the best flavor.

For the salad:

• Leafy greens: Use 6 cups of fresh, leafy greens such as romaine or green leaf lettuce for a satisfying base. The crispness of these greens provides the perfect texture.
• Salami: Choose 4 oz of Italian dry salami for its bold flavor. You can either use pre-sliced or buy a hard stick and cut it into cubes.
• Pepperoni: 4 oz of pepperoni, cut in half, adds a spicy and savory note to the salad. Pre-sliced pepperoni makes it easy to prepare.
• Mozzarella pearls: About ¾ cup of mozzarella pearls adds a creamy, fresh taste. Alternatively, you can use fresh mozzarella cut into cubes.
• Cherry tomatoes: Use ¾ cup of cherry tomatoes, halved. They bring sweetness and color to the salad.
• Black olives: Add ½ cup of pitted and sliced black olives for a briny, salty touch that complements the other ingredients.
• Pepperoncini: ¼ cup of pepperoncini, sliced, will give the salad a slight tangy kick. These pickled peppers are a great addition for zest.
• Red onion: ¼ cup of thinly sliced red onion adds a mild sharpness to balance the richness of the cheese and meats.
• Fresh basil: ¼ cup of thinly sliced fresh basil will infuse the salad with an aromatic and vibrant flavor.

For the Red Wine Vinaigrette:

• Olive oil: Use ⅓ cup of extra light-tasting olive oil for a smooth, subtle base.
• Red wine vinegar: ¼ cup of red wine vinegar provides the tangy, zesty punch that will define the vinaigrette.
• Italian seasoning: 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning will enhance the dressing with Mediterranean flavors.
• Garlic: Mince 2 garlic cloves for that wonderful savory depth.
• Red pepper flakes: A small amount (about ¼ teaspoon) will add a hint of heat without overpowering the salad.
• Salt & black pepper: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. These staples are essential for balancing the vinaigrette.

How to Make Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette

This salad is easy to prepare and comes together in just a few simple steps. Let’s dive into the preparation process:

1. Prepare the Vinaigrette
   Start by whisking together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper in a bowl or large measuring cup. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once combined, cover and refrigerate the vinaigrette while you prepare the rest of the salad.

2. Assemble the Salad
   While the vinaigrette chills, add all your salad ingredients into a large mixing bowl. Include the leafy greens, salami, pepperoni, mozzarella pearls, cherry tomatoes, olives, pepperoncini, red onion, and fresh basil. Toss gently to combine.

3. Toss with Vinaigrette
   Once the ingredients are well combined, pour your chilled vinaigrette over the salad. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

4. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can also top the salad with some freshly shredded Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

• Full of Flavor: The balance of zesty red wine vinaigrette, savory cured meats, fresh mozzarella, and pepperoncini creates a delicious, well-rounded flavor profile.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation required, this salad is ready in just 15 minutes.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on personal preferences. Want to make it vegetarian? Skip the meats and add some chickpeas or extra vegetables.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ, picnic, or family dinner, this Italian salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with many meals.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with vegetables, protein, and fresh herbs, this salad is as healthy as it is filling. It can even stand alone as a main dish for a light meal.

Variations and Customization Tips for Your Italian Salad

One of the best things about the Italian salad with zesty red wine vinaigrette is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients and make it your own based on dietary preferences, seasonal ingredients, or what you have on hand. Here are a few ways to tweak the recipe to suit your taste:

1. Make It Vegetarian
   For a vegetarian version, simply skip the salami and pepperoni and replace them with hearty options like chickpeas, canned beans, or grilled vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant. Adding avocado can also lend a creamy texture and boost the healthy fats in the salad.

2. Make It Gluten-Free
   This salad is naturally gluten-free, but if you’re serving it with bread on the side, make sure to choose gluten-free options. You can also add gluten-free croutons for an extra crunch.

3. Add More Veggies
   If you love your salad loaded with even more vegetables, feel free to experiment. Add cucumber slices, bell peppers, or artichokes to introduce new textures and flavors. These veggies also provide extra nutrients, making the salad even more filling.

4. Add a Sweet Touch
   If you enjoy a balance of sweet and savory, consider adding a handful of grapes or dried cranberries. These fruits will contrast nicely with the savory ingredients and bring a bit of natural sweetness to the salad.

5. Top It with More Cheese
   While mozzarella pearls provide a creamy touch, you can take it a step further by adding some crumbled feta, Parmesan, or blue cheese. These cheeses add bold flavors and will elevate the richness of the salad.

6. Try a Protein Boost
   For those looking to make this a more protein-packed meal, adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu is a great option. This addition will make the salad even more satisfying, turning it into a complete meal.

Nutritional Benefits of Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette

This Italian salad with zesty red wine vinaigrette not only tastes delicious but also offers a range of nutritional benefits. Here’s a breakdown of some key health benefits provided by the ingredients:

• Leafy Greens: Full of vitamins like vitamins A, C, and K, leafy greens such as romaine and green leaf lettuce are low in calories and high in fiber, making them an excellent base for a healthy salad.
• Mozzarella: Provides a good source of protein and calcium, supporting bone health and muscle function. It also adds a creamy texture to the salad.
• Olives: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, olives promote heart health. They’re also high in antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress.
• Pepperoncini: These small peppers are packed with vitamin C and can help with digestion, providing a boost to the immune system.
• Red Wine Vinegar: Besides adding tang to the vinaigrette, red wine vinegar is believed to aid digestion and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
• Garlic: Known for its powerful antioxidant properties, garlic can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

With its rich variety of vegetables, healthy fats, and proteins, this salad provides a well-rounded mix of essential nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet.

How to Serve and Pair This Salad

The Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette pairs perfectly with many different dishes, making it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions. Here are some ideas for serving and pairing:

1. Serve as a Main Course
   This salad is hearty enough to be served as a main course. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or cheesy garlic bread to complete the meal. You can also add a light dessert like fruit sorbet or lemon gelato for a refreshing finish.

2. Pair with Grilled Meats
   The salad’s freshness makes it a great accompaniment to grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or grilled vegetables. The acidity of the vinaigrette complements the smoky flavors of the grilled dishes.

3. Perfect for Potlucks and Parties
   Since this salad is easy to make in large batches, it’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or summer BBQs. You can even bring it to a picnic or enjoy it during a cozy meal at home.

4. As a Side to Pasta Dishes
   If you’re serving an Italian meal, pair this salad with a classic pasta dish like spaghetti with marinara sauce, pasta carbonara, or lasagna. The light and zesty nature of the salad balances well with the richness of the pasta.

Tips for Perfecting Your Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette

To ensure your Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:

1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients

Since this salad relies on fresh vegetables, cheese, and cured meats, using high-quality ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor. Opt for fresh, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and flavorful mozzarella. The better your ingredients, the better your salad will taste.

2. Chill the Salad Before Serving

For the most refreshing experience, let your salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, and the cool temperature makes it even more refreshing, especially during hot weather.

3. Adjust the Vinaigrette to Taste

The red wine vinaigrette is a tangy and zesty base, but you can easily adjust the levels of vinegar and olive oil to suit your taste. If you prefer a more vinegary dressing, add a little extra red wine vinegar. For a milder dressing, increase the amount of olive oil.

4. Prepare the Salad Ahead of Time

If you’re making this salad for a gathering, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Chop your veggies, slice your meats, and make the dressing the day before. Keep them stored separately in airtight containers and assemble the salad just before serving.

5. Store the Leftovers Properly

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days. If the salad looks a bit dry after sitting in the fridge, simply toss it with a little extra vinaigrette before serving.

FAQs On Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette

1. What is zesty Italian dressing made of?

Zesty Italian dressing is typically made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. It is a tangy and flavorful dressing that pairs perfectly with fresh salads and vegetables. Some versions also include Dijon mustard or honey for added richness and sweetness.

2. What’s the difference between Italian vinaigrette and Italian dressing?

The main difference between Italian vinaigrette and Italian dressing is their consistency and ingredients. Italian vinaigrette is typically made with a simple mix of olive oil and vinegar (often red wine vinegar) along with seasonings like garlic, oregano, and basil. It has a more acidic and tangy flavor. Italian dressing, on the other hand, may include additional ingredients such as sugar, mustard, or cream, giving it a slightly sweeter and thicker consistency compared to the more straightforward and zesty vinaigrette.

3. How to make pasta salad with red wine vinegar?

To make a pasta salad with red wine vinegar, follow these simple steps:

1. Cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions.
2. Once the pasta is cooked and drained, let it cool.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for a tangy vinaigrette.
4. Toss the pasta with the vinaigrette, adding any additional ingredients like cherry tomatoes, olives, mozzarella, or cucumbers.
5. Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

4. What is Italian salad dressing made of?

Italian salad dressing is made from a base of olive oil and vinegar (usually red wine vinegar), with added garlic, Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, and thyme), salt, pepper, and sometimes a little sugar for sweetness. It may also include Dijon mustard or Parmesan cheese to enhance its flavor.

5. Can I make Italian salad with balsamic vinaigrette instead of red wine vinaigrette?

Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinaigrette for red wine vinaigrette if you prefer a sweeter, richer dressing. While the taste will be slightly different, balsamic vinaigrette still offers a tangy and flavorful base that complements the ingredients in an Italian salad. Just remember that balsamic vinaigrette tends to be a bit thicker and sweeter than red wine vinaigrette, so adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences.

Italian Salad with Zesty Red Wine Vinaigrette Recipe Card

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 6 cups leafy green lettuce (romaine or green leaf)
• 4 oz salami, quartered
• 4 oz pepperoni, cut in half
• ¾ cup mozzarella pearls (or fresh mozzarella cut into cubes)
• ¾ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup black olives, pitted & sliced
• ¼ cup pepperoncini, sliced
• ¼ cup red onion, sliced thin
• ¼ cup fresh basil, sliced thin

For the Red Wine Vinaigrette:

• ⅓ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup red wine vinegar
• 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Cover and refrigerate the vinaigrette while you prepare the salad.

2. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the leafy greens, salami, pepperoni, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, olives, pepperoncini, red onion, and basil. Toss the ingredients gently to combine.

3. Toss with Vinaigrette: Pour the chilled vinaigrette over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat all the ingredients.

4. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor if desired.

Notes:

• For a vegetarian version, skip the salami and pepperoni and replace them with chickpeas or grilled vegetables.
• You can add avocado, croutons, or extra cheese to enhance the salad’s flavor and texture.
• The salad is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 900mg

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Method: Toss and Serve
Cuisine: Italian