This Fall Antipasto Salad is a colorful mix of crunchy greens, roasted veggies, and tasty cheese. It’s perfect for brightening up the dinner table and your taste buds!
And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a salad that feels like a cozy hug? I adore piling on the extras, like olives and nuts—it’s like a party in a bowl! 🎉
With its fresh flavors and delightful textures, this salad is as easy to make as it is to eat. Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a beautiful dish that’s great for gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce: This lettuce adds a crisp texture. You can swap it for spinach or mixed greens if you want something softer or more colorful.
Radicchio or Endive: These add a slight bitterness that complements the other flavors. If you can’t find them, arugula works as a nice substitute for a peppery bite.
Pepperoncini Peppers: Their tanginess is key! If they’re unavailable, banana peppers or even cherry peppers can add similar flavor without losing the salad’s feel.
Mini Mozzarella Balls: These are creamy and mild. Instead, you can use cubed feta for a sharper taste or even cheddar if you prefer.
Prosciutto: For a different flavor, thinly sliced salami or turkey can provide a nice touch. Vegetarian? Try avocado for creaminess.
How Do I Arrange the Salad for the Best Presentation?
The arrangement of the salad makes it visually appealing. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with your base of romaine and radicchio in a large bowl, creating a great foundation.
- Use groups of color to create sections: arrange your pepperoncini, mozzarella, red onion, and olives around the sides.
- Place the prosciutto in the center, allowing it to be the star of the dish.
- Finally, sprinkle crispy bacon on top; it adds texture and flavor.
- Remember, a little chaos can be cute! But neat sections can make the salad more elegant.
Toss the salad gently just before serving to keep everything vibrant, or serve it in sections so your guests can mix as they like. Enjoy your colorful creation!
Fall Antipasto Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup radicchio or endive, roughly chopped
Other Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup sliced yellow pepperoncini peppers
- 1 cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved if large
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup mixed olives, pitted and halved
- 6 oz thinly sliced prosciutto or similar Italian cured meat
- 1 cup cooked and crispy bacon pieces
Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
Estimated Time to Prepare:
This delicious Fall Antipasto Salad will take about 20 minutes to prepare. Perfect for a light lunch or as a colorful side dish for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a large salad bowl, start by arranging the chopped romaine lettuce and radicchio. This forms a fresh and crunchy base for your beautiful salad.
2. Organize the Ingredients:
Next, neatly group the sliced yellow pepperoncini, halved mozzarella balls, diced red onion, and mixed olives around the bowl. Organizing them in sections will make your salad look appealing and colorful!
3. Add the Prosciutto:
Layer the thinly sliced prosciutto loosely in the center on top of the greens. This is where you add that rich flavor that makes this salad special.
4. Top with Bacon:
Sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces evenly over the entire salad for a crunchy bite that everyone will love!
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, and optional dried herbs. This dressing will bring all the flavors together.
6. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing lightly over the salad just before serving. This keeps everything fresh and lively!
7. Toss and Serve:
Gently toss the salad just before serving if you want to mix things up a bit. Alternatively, serve it as is to display those beautiful sections. For an extra touch, serve with fresh crusty bread on the side!
This Fall Antipasto Salad blends fresh greens, savory meats, creamy cheese, and tangy flavors into a delightful dish that everyone will enjoy. Happy eating!
Can I Use Different Greens in This Salad?
Absolutely! While romaine and radicchio are delicious, you can substitute with spinach, kale, or mixed salad greens based on your preference or what you have on hand.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the greens may wilt, so it’s best to eat the salad fresh if possible!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate other favorites like artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or even nuts for added texture. Just keep a balance to maintain the salad’s flavor profile.
What Can I Substitute for Prosciutto?
If prosciutto isn’t available, you can use other cured meats like salami or turkey. For a vegetarian option, avocado, chickpeas, or roasted mushrooms are great substitutes!