Name: Fresh Antipasto Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb grape tomatoes, halved.; 1 cup black olives, sliced.; ½ cup green olives, sliced.; ½ cup sliced pepperoncinis.; 1 cup chopped marinated artichokes.; 4 ounces thinly sliced salami, quartered.; 1 cup preferred cheese (½ cup crumbled feta and ½ cup cubed manchego recommended).; ¼ cup olive oil.; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar.; 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning.; 1 garlic clove, grated.; Handful of fresh parsley, chopped.; Salt and pepper to taste.

Antipasto Salad is a classic Italian dish that brings together a variety of fresh and flavorful ingredients. This salad features a colorful mix of grape tomatoes, olives, pepperoncinis, marinated artichokes, and savory salami, paired with a blend of feta and manchego cheeses. Dressed in a simple yet zesty vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, and fresh parsley, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying. Perfect for entertaining or a light meal, this Antipasto Salad is a versatile dish that can be customized to your taste. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, it's sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and textures.

This Antipasto Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish, perfect for a light meal or a side dish at any gathering. Packed with vibrant flavors and a variety of textures, this salad features a mix of fresh vegetables, savory meats, and flavorful cheeses. Let's explore the ingredients that make this dish so special.

INGREDIENTS

Grape Tomatoes: 1 lb, halved. These add a sweet and juicy element to the salad.
Black Olives: 1 cup, sliced. They bring a rich, briny flavor to the mix.
Green Olives: ½ cup, sliced. A slightly different olive variety for added complexity.
Pepperoncinis: ½ cup, sliced. These bring a mild heat and tangy taste.
Marinated Artichokes: 1 cup, chopped. They add a unique, savory flavor.
Salami: 4 ounces, thinly sliced and quartered. Adds a salty and savory element.
Cheese: 1 cup of your preferred cheese. We recommend ½ cup crumbled feta for a tangy taste and ½ cup cubed manchego for a nutty flavor.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Begin by preparing the salad ingredients. Halve the grape tomatoes and set them aside. Slice both the black and green olives. Next, slice the pepperoncinis and chop the marinated artichokes. Quarter the thinly sliced salami for easy mixing and crumbling. Finally, crumble the feta cheese and cube the manchego cheese.
Step 2:: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grape tomatoes, black and green olives, pepperoncinis, marinated artichokes, salami, and cheeses. Gently toss all the ingredients together to ensure an even distribution of flavors and textures.
Step 3:: To make the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried Italian seasoning, and grated garlic in a small bowl. Add a handful of freshly chopped parsley for a fresh herbal note. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste, then whisk until all the ingredients are well combined.
Step 4:: Pour the dressing over the combined salad ingredients in the large bowl. Gently mix to coat the salad evenly with the dressing. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to maintain the integrity of the ingredients.
Step 5:: Transfer the dressed salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Antipasto Salad.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve this Antipasto Salad fresh and chilled for the best flavor and texture. It's perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch.
Pair it with crusty bread or serve it alongside grilled meats for a complete meal.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The salad can become soggy over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh.
For a more substantial meal, consider adding cooked pasta to make it a pasta salad.

Helpful Notes

You can customize this salad by adding your favorite vegetables, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions.
For a different flavor profile, try using different cheeses like mozzarella balls or provolone.
If you're a fan of seafood, consider adding shrimp or tuna for a delicious twist.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Giada De Laurentiis suggests using fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
Chef Jamie Oliver recommends making the salad ahead of time and letting it marinate for an hour to enhance the flavors.
Chef Ina Garten advises to always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, ensuring the salad is perfectly balanced.