Italian Chopped Salad For One

Make a flavorful single serve Italian Chopped Salad just for you, quickly and easily. This salad combines fresh lettuce, sharp red onions, juicy tomatoes, filling chickpeas, and traditional Italian meats like salami and ham. Topped with creamy mozzarella and a homemade vinaigrette, each bite is full of Italian zest. Ideal for any meal, this recipe lets you enjoy the rich flavors of Italy from the comfort of your kitchen.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Italian Chopped Salad Recipe

• Perfect Portion Control: First off, when you’re making a single serving recipe, you’re in total control of your portions. This means no accidental overeating, and no sad, wilted leftovers. It’s just the right amount to satisfy your salad cravings without going overboard.
• Quick and Easy: One of the best things about this salad is how quickly you can whip it up. Since you’re only prepping for one, the chopping and assembling take no time at all. Plus, fewer ingredients mean less time spent shopping. It’s a win-win!
• No Waste, No Fuss: Don’t you hate it when you make a huge salad, only to find it soggy the next day? With a single serving, you eat what you make right away. No waste, and you always get to enjoy it at its freshest.
• Doubles Beautifully: Got company? No problem! This recipe is so straightforward that doubling or even tripling it is a breeze. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, this Italian Chopped Salad scales effortlessly to meet your needs.

This section provides a quick rundown of the ingredients used in this recipe. For complete measurements and step-by-step instructions, please scroll to the recipe card located at the bottom of this post.

For The Lemon Vinaigrette:

• Red Wine Vinegar: Adds a tart, zesty edge. Apple cider vinegar is an excellent substitute if you’re out of red wine vinegar.
• Dijon Mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing. You can use yellow mustard, but it will have a milder flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Convenient for quick recipes and adds a subtle garlic note. Fresh minced garlic works too if you prefer.
• Dried Oregano: Brings a herby aroma. Fresh oregano can also be used, just chop it finely.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
• Black Pepper: Adds a bit of kick. Freshly ground black pepper is ideal for a more robust flavor.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for the best flavor. It acts as the base for the vinaigrette.
• Lemon Juice: Adds citrusy brightness. Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended over bottled.
• Honey: Sweetens the dressing slightly.

For The Salad:

• Iceberg Lettuce: Provides a crispy base. Romaine or spinach are good alternatives for varying textures and flavors.
• Red Onions: Adds a spicy, aromatic touch. Shallots or white onions can be used if you prefer milder flavors.
• Tomatoes: I use cherry tomatoes which bring a natural sweetness. One medium sized tomato can be used instead.
• Canned Chickpeas: Adds plant-based protein.
• Salami: Offers a salty, fatty richness. Chorizo or pepperoni are good alternatives.
• Ham: Gives a smoky flavor. Turkey or chicken slices could also work.
• Mozzarella Pearls: Mozzarella pearls are tiny, bite-sized balls of fresh mozzarella cheese. They’re perfect for scattering across the salad and they add a creamy, indulgent twist. You can easily use regular fresh mozzarella as a substitute. Just take a ball of fresh mozzarella and cut it into small, bite-sized cubes. Cubed feta or dairy-free options like almond cheese can substitute.
• Pepperoncini: Adds a tangy spice to the salad. Banana peppers or jalapeños are good alternatives for different heat levels.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Gives an aromatic herbal note. Fresh mint or even parsley can offer different but equally pleasing herbal notes.

This is just an overview of the ingredients I used and why I used them. For the full recipe please scroll down to the recipe box at the bottom of the post.

How To Make An Italian Chopped Salad For One

These step-by-step photos and instructions help you visualize how to make an Italian Chopped Salad. See the recipe box below for ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions.

1. Prepare the Lemon Vinaigrette: In a mixing bowl or a small jar, blend together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined and set aside.

2. Prep the Lettuce: Cut the iceberg lettuce into 1/4-inch strips lengthwise for easy mixing and eating.
3. Build the Salad: In a sizable bowl, mix together your sliced iceberg lettuce, red onions, juicy tomatoes, canned chickpeas, savory salami, smoky ham, creamy mozzarella pearls, tangy pepperoncini, and fresh basil.

4. Add Dressing and Customize: Gently pour the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Toss lightly to coat everything evenly. Feel free to tweak the seasonings or add more of your favorite ingredients according to your taste.
5. Enjoy Your Salad: Now that everything’s mixed and dressed, your Italian Chopped Salad is ready to eat.

Expert Tips

• Dressing Ahead: Consider making the lemon vinaigrette a day in advance to let the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Ingredient Prep: Chop all your ingredients roughly the same size for a uniform eating experience.
• Veggie Drain: If using canned chickpeas, make sure to drain and rinse them well to remove excess sodium.
• Personalize Your Salad: The beauty of an Italian Chopped Salad is its versatility. Tweak the dressing for your desired level of tang or swap in different herbs to make the flavor profile uniquely yours.

Serving Suggestions

Looking for the perfect pairings to make your Italian Chopped Salad even more enjoyable? These handpicked side options add an extra touch of satisfaction to your meal.

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm bread complements the salad’s Italian flair.
• Pasta Side: Consider a small portion of your favorite light pasta dish.
• White Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with this salad.
• Grilled Chicken: For added protein, serve alongside a lean piece of grilled or baked chicken breast.
• Fruit Platter: Fresh fruit like melon or berries can provide a sweet counterpoint to the salad’s savory elements.
• Classic Side Dish: The salad works wonders next to Italian classics like Pesto Pasta, Lasagna, or Pepperoni Pizza. It adds a refreshing crunch and balance.
• Salad Wraps: For a portable meal option, stuff a large tortilla wrap with the chopped salad, add your choice of protein, and a drizzle of dressing.

Must-Try Single Serving Salad Recipes

Hungry for more variety in your one-person salad game? This curated list of single serving salad recipes will keep your taste buds excited and your meal planning stress-free.

1. Cucumber Salad
2. Avocado Salad
3. Cobb Salad
4. Greek Salad
5. Taco Salad

Check out more single serving salads!

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