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Pizza Salad


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Description

All the best parts of a classic slice: savory pepperoni, creamy mozzarella, briny olives, and crisp romaine, all tossed with juicy tomatoes and a punchy Italian vinaigrette. It’s fresh, colorful, and full of the same craveable flavors that make pizza a favorite.


Ingredients

The Dressing

1/4 cup premium red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon concentrated tomato paste

2 teaspoons smooth Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano, preferably Mediterranean

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, cold-pressed preferred

The Salad

6 ounces thinly sliced pepperoni, premium quality

5 ounces fresh mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini), or large balls quartered

2/3 cup pitted black olives, preferably Kalamata, sliced

1 cup red onion, thinly sliced into half-moons

2 cups mixed bell peppers (vibrant yellow, red, and green), julienned

4 packed cups fresh iceberg lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces

4 packed cups crisp romaine lettuce, chopped into uniform pieces

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese


Instructions

Prepare the Signature Dressing: Begin by creating the flavor foundation of this remarkable salad. In a clean, wide-mouth jar or airtight container, combine the red wine vinegar, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, sugar, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 30 seconds to begin the emulsification process. Add the extra-virgin olive oil and shake again with considerable force for one full minute, ensuring all ingredients are completely incorporated into a smooth, cohesive vinaigrette. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or sugar as desired, the dressing should be bold, well-balanced, and intensely flavorful.

Assemble the Salad Components: In a large, wide salad bowl, arrange the sliced pepperoni, fresh mozzarella balls, sliced black olives, julienned red onion, colorful bell pepper strips, and both varieties of chopped lettuce. Take care to distribute the ingredients evenly throughout the bowl, creating an appealing visual presentation that ensures each serving will contain a perfect balance of all components.

Final Assembly and Presentation: Just before serving, shake the prepared dressing vigorously once more to re-emulsify any separated ingredients. Drizzle approximately half of the dressing over the assembled salad ingredients, then toss gently but thoroughly using clean hands or large salad tongs, ensuring every piece of lettuce and ingredient is beautifully coated. Add additional dressing if desired, reserving any remainder in the refrigerator for future use, it will keep fresh for up to three days. Crown the finished salad with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and serve immediately alongside warm, crusty breadsticks for the complete pizza experience.

Notes

This pizza salad is best enjoyed fresh, though individual components can be prepared in advance. The dressing actually improves in flavor after a day of resting, allowing the herbs and seasonings to meld beautifully. For optimal texture, always dress the salad just before serving to maintain the crisp integrity of the lettuce. Store any leftover dressing in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before using, this ensures proper emulsification and flavor distribution.

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: American