Refreshing Italian Chopped Salad Recipe

The bright colors of an Italian chopped salad dance on your plate like a festive parade of fresh ingredients. Picture crisp cucumbers crunching beneath your fork, juicy tomatoes bursting with flavor, and creamy mozzarella mingling joyfully in every bite. It’s a dish that practically sings summer vibes, making it the perfect companion for lazy afternoons or lively dinner parties.

You know that feeling when you’re searching for something light yet satisfying? The kind of meal that won’t weigh you down but still makes your taste buds do a happy jig? That’s exactly what this Italian chopped salad delivers—so grab your cutting board and let’s dive into some culinary fun!

Sharing this delightful dish at our family barbecue elicited cheers from everyone—it was a hit!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Cherry Tomatoes: Look for firm tomatoes with vibrant colors for the best flavor; they should be juicy yet not overripe.
• Cucumbers: Pick crisp cucumbers; English cucumbers are great since they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin.
• Red Onion: A small amount adds zing without overwhelming the other flavors; adjust based on your taste preference.
• Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colors—red, yellow, and green—for a visual feast along with sweet crunchiness.
• Fresh Mozzarella Balls: Opt for soft mozzarella pearls; they add creaminess and balance the acidity of the veggies.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Torn basil leaves bring an aromatic freshness; use them generously for that authentic Italian touch.
• Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors; it’s worth splurging on the good stuff!
• Balsamic Vinegar: Choose a good balsamic vinegar to add tanginess; it complements the sweetness of the vegetables beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; remember that seasoning is key to bringing out all those vibrant flavors.

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

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Veggies : Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly under cool water. Chop cherry tomatoes in half and slice cucumbers into half-moons. Cube bell peppers while finely dicing red onion.

Toss It All Together : In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, bell peppers, mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. The rainbow of colors will instantly brighten your day!

Add Some Flavor : Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the veggies. Sprinkle salt and pepper generously to enhance each ingredient’s natural goodness.

Mix Gently : Using two large spoons or tongs, gently toss everything together until well combined. Be careful not to squish those delicate mozzarella balls!

Let It Chill : For maximum flavor infusion, cover your bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy this vibrant Italian chopped salad as an appetizer or side at any gathering!

This easy-to-make dish is not only visually stunning but also packed with delightful flavors that come together beautifully. Enjoy each bite as it transports you straight to an Italian summer feast!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by prepping your vegetables; chop everything into bite-sized pieces for even distribution. Then, whisk together the dressing while you’re chopping to maximize efficiency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients! Try adding chickpeas for protein or avocado for creaminess. A sprinkle of feta cheese can also add a delightful tang!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. For best results, keep dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain crunchiness.

I still remember the first time I served this Italian chopped salad at my family gathering. Everyone raved about its freshness, and I felt like a culinary superstar!

FAQ

What makes an Italian chopped salad special?

The combination of fresh vegetables and zesty dressing creates a burst of flavor in every bite.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, but keep the dressing separate until serving to avoid sogginess.

What are some good toppings for an Italian chopped salad?

Consider adding grilled chicken, olives, or croutons for extra texture and taste!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Italian Chopped Salad

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in this refreshing Italian chopped salad, a colorful medley of fresh vegetables and creamy mozzarella, perfect for any meal or gathering.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup English cucumbers, sliced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), chopped
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (about 8 oz)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Wash all vegetables under cool water. Halve cherry tomatoes and slice cucumbers into half-moons. Dice the bell peppers and finely chop the red onion.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, bell peppers, mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves.
3. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper.
4. Gently toss all ingredients using two spoons or tongs until well combined.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg