Introduction
On a summer trip to Tuscany, I discovered the magic of fresh, vibrant Italian salad. The crisp vegetables, aromatic herbs, and tangy dressings made every bite a burst of Mediterranean sunshine. I remember sitting at a rustic wooden table in a small village café, where the chef served me a colorful bowl that seemed alive with flavor. Inspired, I brought the recipe home to share with friends and family. This dish became a staple at my gatherings, often sparking conversations about travel and culture. I, Lina Vexley, now share this timeless recipe so you can savor Italy on your plate.
Recipe Card (WP Recipe Maker JSON)
Classic Italian Salad
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 4 cups romaine lettuce chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cucumber sliced
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives pitted
Dressing
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- Wash and chop all vegetables as directed.
- Add lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives to a large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately as a side or light main dish.
Notes
Nutrition
How to Make Italian Salad
Making a classic Italian salad is both simple and rewarding, requiring only fresh ingredients and a quick homemade dressing. Start by washing and preparing your vegetables: crisp romaine lettuce forms the foundation, while cherry tomatoes add a sweet juiciness. Cucumber slices bring cool crunch, red onion offers a sharp contrast, and briny black olives contribute depth.
Once the vegetables are prepped, combine them in a large mixing bowl, layering the colors for a visually appealing dish. The true star of an Italian salad, however, is its dressing. In a separate small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. The key is balance: the oil provides richness, the vinegar adds tang, and the oregano infuses earthy Mediterranean notes.
Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving to preserve the crisp texture of the vegetables. Toss gently, ensuring every piece is coated with flavor without bruising the lettuce. At this stage, you can customize—add shaved Parmesan for creaminess, roasted bell peppers for sweetness, or fresh basil for fragrance.
This salad pairs beautifully with pasta, grilled meats, or even as a stand-alone light meal. Its freshness and versatility make it a staple for summer lunches and festive gatherings alike. By using quality olive oil and seasonal produce, you’ll elevate a simple dish into a truly authentic Italian experience that celebrates both tradition and taste.
Conclusion
An Italian salad is more than a bowl of vegetables—it’s a reflection of the Mediterranean lifestyle: fresh, balanced, and nourishing. With crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, savory olives, and a zesty