Ingredients

Scale

Here’s a breakdown of what goes into this deli-inspired chopped salad and why each ingredient earns its place.

For the Salad

6 cups chopped romaine lettuce — Forms the crisp, fresh base of the salad.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved — Adds juicy sweetness and color.
1 cup English cucumber, chopped — Adds fresh, crisp crunch.
½ cup pepperoncini, sliced — Adds tangy heat and classic Italian deli flavor.
½ cup Kalamata or black olives, sliced — Adds briny, savory depth.
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped — Adds sharp, savory bite.
3 oz Genoa salami, chopped — Adds classic Italian deli flavor and a bit of spice.
3 oz deli ham, chopped — Adds mild, savory saltiness.
3 oz provolone cheese, chopped — Adds creamy, mild sharpness.
¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese — Adds salty, nutty, umami-rich depth.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped — Adds fresh, herbal brightness.
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped — Adds a touch of sweet, aromatic flavor.

For the Italian Dressing

⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil — Forms the rich base of the dressing.
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar — Adds sharp, classic Italian tang.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice — Adds bright acidity.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard — Adds depth and helps the dressing emulsify.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning — Reinforces the classic Italian flavor profile.
½ teaspoon dried oregano — Adds earthy, herbal depth.
1 small garlic clove, finely minced — Adds aromatic backbone to the dressing.
½ teaspoon honey or sugar — Balances the acidity of the vinegar and lemon.
½ teaspoon black pepper — Adds a subtle, warm bite.
¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste — Enhances all the other flavors.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional — Adds a gentle kick of heat.

Instructions

This recipe comes together in a series of simple steps. Here’s exactly how to make it.

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing Add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, oregano, garlic, honey, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes to a small jar. Shake vigorously until well combined and slightly emulsified.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables Wash and dry the romaine and vegetables thoroughly. Chop the lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, pepperoncini, olives, and red onion into small, bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Chop the Deli Ingredients Cut the salami, ham, and provolone into small pieces so that you get a little of everything in each forkful.

Step 4: Combine Everything Add the romaine, tomatoes, cucumber, pepperoncini, olives, red onion, salami, ham, provolone, Parmesan, parsley, and basil to a large bowl.

Step 5: Add the Dressing Drizzle about two-thirds of the Italian dressing over the salad. Toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust Taste and add more dressing, Parmesan, black pepper, or pepperoncini depending on your preference.

Step 7: Serve Let the salad sit for 5–10 minutes before serving so the flavors can mingle. Finish with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper.