Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the most mouthwatering Italian-inspired salad that will transform your ordinary meal into a culinary adventure! The Cucina Cucina Chopped Salad is not just a salad – it's a vibrant symphony of fresh ingredients that promises to make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a stunning side dish, or a light dinner that packs a punch of flavor, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
Instructions
- Start by gathering all the ingredients needed for the Cucina Cucina Chopped Salad. Ensure that you have 1 head of iceberg lettuce, 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, 1/2 cup of red onion, 1/2 cup of cucumber, 1/2 cup of black olives, 1/2 cup of feta cheese, and 1/4 cup of Italian dressing.
- Rinse the iceberg lettuce under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Shake off excess water and then chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Place the chopped lettuce in a large mixing bowl.
- Next, prepare the cherry tomatoes. Rinse them thoroughly and cut each tomato in half. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the bowl with the chopped lettuce.
- Now, take the red onion and peel off the outer skin. Dice the onion into small pieces and add it to the mixing bowl with the lettuce and tomatoes.
- Prepare the cucumber by washing it under cold water. Cut off both ends and then dice it into small cubes. Add the diced cucumber to the salad bowl.
- Open the can or jar of black olives, drain any excess liquid, and slice the olives. Add the sliced olives to the mixing bowl.
- Next, crumble the feta cheese into small pieces and sprinkle it over the salad ingredients in the bowl.
- Finally, drizzle the Italian dressing over the salad. Use approximately 1/4 cup, but feel free to adjust according to your taste preference.
- Using a large spoon or salad tongs, gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
- Once the salad is mixed, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more dressing, salt, or pepper according to your liking.
- Serve the Cucina Cucina Chopped Salad immediately in individual bowls or on a large serving platter. Enjoy this fresh and vibrant Italian salad as a side dish or a light meal!
Tips
- Freshness is Key: Always use crisp, fresh vegetables. Look for iceberg lettuce that's bright green and firm, and choose cherry tomatoes that are plump and vibrant.
- Prep Like a Pro: Chop all ingredients to roughly the same size for a consistent texture and easier eating experience.
- Dressing Hack: For maximum flavor, let the salad sit for 2-3 minutes after adding the dressing to allow the ingredients to marinate slightly.
- Customization Options: Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn this into a more substantial meal.
- Cheese Tip: For the best flavor, use high-quality feta cheese and crumble it just before adding to the salad.
- Make-Ahead Advice: Prepare ingredients separately and combine just before serving to keep the salad crisp and fresh.
- Dressing Pro Tip: If you want to elevate the flavor, consider making your own Italian dressing or using a high-quality store-bought version.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
