If you’re craving a salad that’s bursting with bold Italian flavors, crisp textures, and a perfect balance of savory and tangy, you’ve found your new favorite. This Big Yummy Italian Salad Recipe is my go-to for a quick yet impressive meal that combines fresh romaine, zesty pepperoncini, rich cheeses, and crunchy golden panko all tossed together with a splash of olive oil and carefully seasoned for maximum yum. It’s fresh, satisfying, and utterly delicious whether you’re whipping up a light lunch or a colorful side for dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Big Yummy Italian Salad Recipe plays an essential role in creating a harmony of taste, texture, and visual appeal. From the crisp romaine lettuce providing a fresh base to the pepperoncini offering that perfect tang, these ingredients are simple yet vital for the authentic Italian vibe.
- Chopped romaine lettuce (3-4 cups): The crunchy foundation that adds freshness and volume.
- Salami (12-15 pieces, bite-sized): Brings a savory, slightly spicy depth to each bite.
- Cubed Provolone cheese (1/2 cup): Adds creamy, mild richness that balances the tangy notes.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): For that nutty, salty kick that elevates flavor complexity.
- DeLallo Sliced Mild Pepperoncini (1/2 cup): Delivers a nice, gentle heat and zesty brightness.
- Thinly sliced red onion (1/2 cup): Lends a subtle sharpness and vibrant color.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): The secret to adding irresistible crunch and golden texture.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the panko with savory warmth.
- DeLallo Castelvetrano Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2 tablespoons plus 3 tablespoons for drizzling): Enhances everything with rich, fruity undertones and moistens the salad.
- Pepperoncini brine (1-2 tablespoons): A splash of this tangy liquid brightens the dressing like magic.
- Italian seasoning (about 1/2 teaspoon): A fragrant mix that ties all the flavors together effortlessly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for perfect seasoning and balance.
How to Make Big Yummy Italian Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prep Salad Stuff
Start by chopping your romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces, slicing the pepperoncini, thinly slicing the red onion, cubing your Provolone cheese, and cutting the salami into perfect, salad-friendly chunks. Getting your ingredients ready before assembling is key to an easy, smooth process and ensures every component shines.
Step 2: Make Golden Crispy Garlic Panko
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of the Castelvetrano Extra Virgin Olive Oil and the garlic powder. Microwave this mixture for 1 minute, then give it a good stir. Pop it back in the microwave for another 20 to 40 seconds until the crumbs turn a beautiful golden brown. Be careful, it will be hot! Finish with a pinch of salt to season the crispy topping. This crunch will take your salad from ordinary to extra special.
Step 3: Toss with No-Recipe Dressing
Combine all the chopped ingredients and cheeses in a large bowl. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, add a splash or two of the pepperoncini brine for that signature tang, and sprinkle in Italian seasoning along with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together gently, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. The final step is folding in those glorious golden panko crispies that add an addictive texture to every forkful. That’s it—simple, delicious, and seriously rewarding!
How to Serve Big Yummy Italian Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up presentation and flavor, consider topping your salad with freshly chopped basil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. A few whole pepperoncini on the side make it look inviting and add a playful pop of color and tang.
Side Dishes
This vibrant salad pairs perfectly with crusty garlic bread or a warm focaccia for a light meal. Alternatively, serve it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp to round out a wholesome dinner with a touch of Italian flair.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try layering the salad in a clear glass bowl or serve it in individual mason jars for meal prep or parties. Adding a lemon wedge on the side invites guests to add a fresh zing, making the Big Yummy Italian Salad Recipe even brighter and more customizable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best texture, keep the crispy panko topping separate and only add it when serving to maintain its crunch.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, and because of its fresh veggies and crispy elements, freezing is not recommended. The lettuce and crunchy panko won’t hold up well once thawed.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating is unnecessary. However, if you plan to use the panko crumbs in another dish, gently warm them in a toaster oven or skillet to bring back that perfect crunch.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of Provolone?
Absolutely! Mozzarella or fontina can work nicely if you prefer a milder, creamier cheese that melts slightly when mixed in. Just keep the balance with the Parmesan for flavor depth.
What if I don’t have pepperoncini brine?
No worries. You can substitute with a bit of lemon juice or even a splash of vinegar mixed with a pinch of salt to add that tangy acidity needed for the dressing.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep if you keep the dressing and panko topping separate until the last moment. This prevents sogginess and keeps the salad fresh and crunchy.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Feel free to customize! Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or roasted red peppers would all make delicious additions and complement the existing ingredients beautifully.
How spicy is this salad?
The Big Yummy Italian Salad Recipe offers a mild, pleasant kick from the mild pepperoncini. If you like it spicier, try using hot pepperoncini or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so satisfying about this Big Yummy Italian Salad Recipe that makes it a lifelong favorite. It’s quick to throw together, packed with vibrant flavors, and feels like a celebration of all the best Italian ingredients in one bowl. Invite this salad to your next meal and enjoy the fresh crunch, zesty tang, and irresistible garlic panko crunch—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Big Yummy Italian Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Big Yummy Italian Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish combining fresh romaine lettuce with savory salami, creamy cubed Provolone, and tangy pepperoncini. Topped with golden, garlicky panko breadcrumbs and a zesty no-recipe dressing made from extra virgin olive oil, pepperoncini brine, and Italian seasoning, it’s a quick, easy, and delicious Italian-style salad perfect for any meal or snack.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 3–4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 12–15 pieces salami, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cubed cheese like Provolone
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup DeLallo Sliced Mild Pepperoncini
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
Panko Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons DeLallo Castelvetrano Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for panko)
- Salt, to taste
Dressing
- Drizzle of DeLallo Castelvetrano Extra Virgin Olive Oil (3 tablespoons)
- Splash of pepperoncini brine (1-2 tablespoons)
- A few shakes of Italian seasoning (about 1/2 teaspoon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep Salad Ingredients: Chop the romaine lettuce, salami into bite-sized pieces, cube the Provolone cheese, grate the Parmesan, slice the pepperoncini and red onion thinly. Set all these salad components aside.
- Make Golden Crispy Garlic Panko: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Microwave for 1 minute, stir well, then microwave again for 20 to 40 seconds until the panko turns a nice golden brown. Be careful as it will be hot.
- Assemble Salad and Dressing: In a large bowl, add all the prepared salad ingredients together. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 to 2 tablespoons of pepperoncini brine, sprinkle Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss and Finish: Toss all the salad ingredients thoroughly to combine and blend flavors. Adjust seasoning to your liking. Finally, add the golden crispy garlic panko on top and give it a gentle toss to distribute evenly. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Microwaving panko results in a quick and easy crispy topping without frying.
- The pepperoncini brine adds a subtle tangy flavor to the dressing.
- Feel free to swap Provolone with mozzarella or another mild Italian cheese.
- Adjust the amount of pepperoncini and seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh to keep the panko crispy.
