Creamy Italiano Salad is a vibrant, hearty, and flavor-packed dish featuring crisp vegetables, savory meats, and a rich homemade Italian dressing. Perfect as a meal or a side, it’s a crowd-pleaser for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or meal prep.
Salad Base:
4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, sliced thin
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/2 cup pepperoncini, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone
1/2 cup salami slices, quartered (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Creamy Italiano Dressing:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup buttermilk (or plain Greek yogurt)
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
Croutons
Roasted chickpeas
Sun-dried tomatoes
Fresh basil or parsley
Wash and chop romaine lettuce. Slice cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. Place all in a large salad bowl.
Add olives, pepperoncini, mozzarella, Parmesan, and salami (if using).
In a separate bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth.
Pour dressing over salad and toss until evenly coated.
Top with croutons or fresh herbs and serve immediately or chill for 10–15 minutes before serving
To make it vegan, use plant-based mayo and skip cheese/salami.
Store dressing and salad separately for meal prep.
Add grilled chicken or beans for extra protein.
Keywords: Creamy Italiano Salad, Italian Salad Recipe, Creamy Italian Dressing, Easy Italian Salad, Italian Chopped Salad, Keto Italian Salad
Find it online: https://simpelrecipes.com/creamy-italiano-salad/