Vibrant Italian Antipasto Salad (Printable Version)

A vibrant Italian-inspired bowl combining cured meats, bocconcini, marinated vegetables and greens in tangy balsamic dressing.

# Ingredients:

→ Salad Base

01 - 5 cups romaine lettuce, chopped into bite-size pieces
02 - 2 cups baby arugula leaves

→ Proteins

03 - 1 cup salami, quartered lengthwise and cut into bite-size pieces
04 - 10 slices prosciutto, chopped into bite-size pieces
05 - 2 cups bocconcini (small mozzarella balls)

→ Vegetables & Accompaniments

06 - 2 cups marinated quartered artichoke hearts, drained and patted dry
07 - ½ cup mixed olives (green, black, and Kalamata)
08 - 1 cup roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
09 - 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
10 - Fresh parsley, chopped

→ Dressing

11 - ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
12 - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
13 - 1 teaspoon fresh garlic, minced
14 - ½ teaspoon kosher salt
15 - ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In an extra-large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce and arugula, creating a fresh foundation for the salad.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified.
03 - Pour half of the prepared dressing over the salad greens and toss thoroughly to ensure even coating and slight moistening of the leaves.
04 - Arrange the salami, prosciutto, artichokes, olives, red peppers, bocconcini, and tomatoes over the dressed greens. Drizzle with remaining dressing and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
05 - Serve immediately to enjoy optimal freshness and texture.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Prep all ingredients in advance and store separately, combining just before serving for maximum freshness.
02 - Customize with sun-dried tomatoes, red onions, roasted zucchini or grilled eggplant as alternatives.
03 - Substitute bocconcini with mozzarella, provolone, shaved parmesan, or crumbled feta if preferred.
04 - Fresh basil or oregano can replace parsley for different flavor profiles.
05 - Quality ingredients, especially fresh greens and high-grade olive oil, significantly enhance flavor.
06 - The dressing can be customized with lemon juice or Italian seasoning, or balsamic can be substituted with red wine vinegar.
07 - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days, keeping dressing separate to prevent sogginess.

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