This recipe is sponsored by DeLallo. Antipasto is the traditional first course of an Italian meal. It usually includes a mix of assorted cured meats like prosciutto and salami, cheeses, and marinated vegetables like artichokes and red peppers. What is the difference between antipasto and antipasto salad? Essentially, the lettuce is the only difference. This is why it is called antipasto salad, because all these common first course ingredients are mixed into one delicious salad. An antipasto salad is made of classic Italian starter items that are piled atop crisp greens, with a simple balsamic vinaigrette that ties this whole tasty situation together. Like a good cheeseboard or Italian Pasta Salad, this simple antipasto salad recipe makes friends wherever it goes. IT:
Is perfect to take along to potlucks.Pulls together quickly for a speedy side.Makes for a breezy and satisfying no-cook summer dinner (this Italian Chopped Salad is another great option).
Just about the only way I can imagine improving this antipasto salad is by washing it down with a glass of crisp wine. Ready for your new go-to summer salad? Looking for an especially elevated excuse to turn a cheeseboard into dinner? Antipasto salad is the recipe for you!
How to Make Antipasto Salad
Like traditional antipasto, the success of antipasto salad relies on its ingredients. Choose good-quality ingredients (no deli antipasto salad) and arrange them with care, and you’ll be rewarded with a dish that is so sublime, you’ll wonder if it’s ever worth cooking again.
The Ingredients
Romaine + Arugula. Our cold antipasto salad recipe starts with a base of crisp chopped romaine and peppery arugula.Prosciutto. Silky and salty, this is always the first item on my antipasto board to disappear.Salami. Everyone loves it (including me!).Olives. A little briny. A lotta salty. I struggle with commitment and like a medley of olives here, but feel free to stick with just one if you have a preference. Do not use the olives from a can; while they have their place (supreme pizza), they don’t cut it here (nor in Niçoise Salad).Marinated Artichoke Hearts. To lighten things up.Roasted Red Peppers. Colorful and sweet.Feta. Salty, creamy, and absolutely scrumptious on this salad.
Cherry Tomatoes. Bright and juicy, they bring the salad balance.Antipasto Salad Dressing. Some good-quality extra virgin olive oil, Dijon, garlic, and balsamic vinegar create a light and flavorful dressing that brings this salad to life.
The Directions
Storage Tips
To Store. Cover and refrigerate leftover salad for up to 1 day.
Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe
Mixing Bowls. Ideal for preparing and serving this Mediterranean antipasto salad. Non-Slip Cutting Board. This cutting board won’t slip away while you’re prepping the ingredients. Salad Spinner. The easiest way to wash and dry lettuce.
Bright with Italian flavor and ingredients, this recipe superbly combines light, fresh elements like romaine and cherry tomatoes with rich, satisfying ones.
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