Vibrant Loaded Italian Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette

As I tossed together a vibrant bowl of Loaded Italian Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette, the colors danced before my eyes like a Mediterranean sunset. Picture crunchy romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes bursting with flavor, and creamy mozzarella balls all mingling together, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that sing summer. Just the thought of it makes my taste buds do a happy dance, especially when drizzled with that tangy homemade vinaigrette.

I remember the first time I made this salad for a backyard barbecue. My friends devoured it faster than they could say “pasta primavera,” and I couldn’t help but feel like a culinary rock star. This dish is perfect for any occasion—be it a picnic, potluck, or just a Tuesday night craving something fresh and delightful. With every bite, you’re in for an explosion of flavors that will have you dreaming of sun-soaked Italian coasts.

Every time I serve this salad, my friends rave about how delicious it is, making me feel like I should consider a career change to professional salad maker.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Romaine Lettuce: Choose crisp romaine heads for that satisfying crunch; wash and dry thoroughly before chopping.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for ripe tomatoes bursting with flavor; halving them makes their sweetness pop.

• Cucumber: Look for firm cucumbers; peel them if you prefer less bitterness.

• Red Onion: Use thinly sliced red onion for that perfect bite without overwhelming the salad.

• Black Olives: Choose pitted kalamata or black olives for added richness; slice them to spread the flavor evenly.

• Mozzarella Balls: Mini mozzarella balls add creaminess; make sure they are fresh for best results.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan brings a salty note; sprinkle generously over the top.

• Fresh Basil: Use whole basil leaves or chiffonade them for aromatic freshness throughout the salad.

• Red Wine Vinegar: Opt for quality vinegar; it adds depth and tang to the vinaigrette.

• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor; use it as your base for dressing.

• Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle kick to your vinaigrette; just a teaspoon goes a long way!

• Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness balances the acidity perfectly in your dressing.

• Salt and Pepper : Essential seasonings to taste; don’t forget to season each layer as you build your salad!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Loaded Italian Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette

Prepare Your Greens: Start by washing your romaine lettuce thoroughly under cold water. Spin it dry in a salad spinner or pat it gently with paper towels until completely dried.

Chop Fresh Veggies: Dice your cucumber and halve those cherry tomatoes while marveling at their juicy insides. Thinly slice the red onion—don’t cry! It’s just an onion.

Create Your Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until fully emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Toss It All Together: In a large mixing bowl, add your prepared lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, mozzarella balls, red onion slices, and basil leaves. Drizzle half of the vinaigrette over the top.

Toss Again: Gently toss everything together until each piece is beautifully coated in vinaigrette goodness. If desired, add more dressing to taste!

Serve Immediately: Transfer your Loaded Italian Salad onto a serving platter or individual bowls while admiring its colorful presentation. Serve right away so everything stays fresh!

This Loaded Italian Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette is not just another green salad—it’s an experience bursting with flavors that will transport you straight to Italy! Enjoy every bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping all your ingredients: chop veggies, slice meats, and whisk the vinaigrette. Toss everything together in a large bowl right before serving for the freshest flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences. Try adding grilled chicken, olives, or even some roasted peppers for an extra flavor boost.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If reheating, add a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Sharing this salad recipe brings back memories of summer barbecues where friends gathered around, enjoying good food and laughter. It’s one of those dishes that never fails to impress!

FAQ

Can I make Loaded Italian Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep ingredients earlier but mix them just before serving.

What are good substitutes for red wine vinaigrette?

You can use balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a different flavor profile.

How long will this salad stay fresh?

The loaded salad will remain fresh in the fridge for up to three days.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Loaded Italian Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in a vibrant Loaded Italian Salad that combines crunchy romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all drizzled with a tangy red wine vinaigrette. Perfect for summer gatherings or a refreshing weeknight dinner, this salad bursts with flavor and color. With fresh ingredients and a quick prep time, it’s an effortless dish that will impress your guests and leave your taste buds dancing.

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Ingredients

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• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the greens by washing and drying the romaine lettuce thoroughly.
2. Chop the cucumber and halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, olives, mozzarella balls, red onion slices, and basil leaves. Drizzle half of the vinaigrette over the top.
5. Toss gently until everything is coated in dressing. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve immediately for optimal freshness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 20mg