This Italian Chopped Salad is loaded with salami, chickpeas, and creamy cheeses for the ultimate low carb lunch or dinner. Tossed in a zesty homemade dressing, this crisp and incredibly flavorful salad is a must-try for any occasion.

Jump to:

• ❤️ Why You'll Love This Italian Chopped Salad Recipe
• 🛒 Ingredients for Italian Sub Salad
• 🔪 How to Make Antipasto Salad
• 💡 Tips
• ☑️ Storage Instructions
• 🍴 What to Serve with Italian Salad
• 🔄 Substitutions and Additions
• Why is My Salad Soggy?
• Can I Use Bagged Salad Mix?
• Is This Salad Keto-Friendly?
• Can I Prep This Salad in Advance?
• What if I Don’t Like Olives?
• 🍽️ More Tasty Salad Recipes

❤️ Why You'll Love This Italian Chopped Salad Recipe

• Combination of an Italian sub and antipasto flavors
• Crisp romaine, radicchio and juicy sweet tomatoes
• Protein-rich chickpeas and salami
• Blend of creamy Italian cheeses
• Tossed in an easy homemade dressing
• Low carb and family friendly

My recipe for Italian Chopped Salad has everything you’d want from an Italian sub and antipasto plate, all tossed into one big, satisfying bowl. Between the crisp romaine, creamy cheeses, and tangy dressing, it’s the kind of recipes you’ll find yourself making over and over.

I love how the chickpeas add a little extra heartiness while the salami brings in the flavor, and the pepperoncini adds a little zesty tang. Every bite has something you’ll love. And the best part is the whole thing comes together in minutes. It’s fresh, its filling, and honestly, it’s just a really delicious salad.

Another great thing about this recipe is that it's has plenty of protein and can be served as a side dish or a light main course. If you love entrée salad recipes, you should also check out this Roasted Salmon Quinoa summer Salad or this Asian Grilled Chicken Salad.

🛒 Ingredients for Italian Sub Salad

• Romaine lettuce
• Radicchio
• Chickpeas
• Tomatoes
• Salami
• Mozzarella
• Provolone
• Pepperoncini with brine
• Kalamata olives
• Olive oil
• Red wine vinegar
• Garlic
• Dijon mustard
• Dried oregano
• Salt
• Ground black pepper

*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

🥣 Recommended Tools

• Bullet blender, salad dressing shaker or bowl with whisk
• Large salad bowl or platter

🔪 How to Make Antipasto Salad

To Make the Dressing

Add all of the dressing ingredients into bullet blender cup.  If you don’t have one, you can use either a salad dressing shaker or mixing bowl and whisk.

Blend until fully combined and emulsified.  Then set it aside to allow the flavors to meld, while you prepare the salad.

To Assemble the Salad

Wash, dry and chop the romaine lettuce and radicchio. I like to use my salad spinner to make it easier.

Add the romaine to a large salad bowl or platter, spreading it evenly on the bottom.  Add the radicchio and chickpeas in clusters over the top, leaving plenty of room for the remaining ingredients.

Next, add the cubed provolone cheese and tomatoes, also in clusters.

Add the chopped salami and cubed fresh mozzarella cheese.

Then add the sliced pepperoncini and Kalamata olives.

Pour the dressing over the top, right before you’re ready to serve.

💡 Tips

• Dry the lettuce and radicchio well using a salad spinner to keep them crisp.
• Cut the mozzarella and provolone into small cubes for an even mix.
• Use a mason jar to shake the dressing if you don’t have a bullet blender.
• Let the dressing sit while you prep to give the garlic and oregano time to infuse.
• Add the dressing right before serving so the lettuce stays crisp.
• Use tongs to toss gently so the cheese and chickpeas don’t break apart.

☑️ Storage Instructions

You can store undressed salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep dressing separate in a sealed jar and shake before using. Once the salad is dressed, eat within 24 hours for the best texture.

🍴 What to Serve with Italian Salad

With the addition of chickpeas, this salad can easily be served as a standalone meal. But it's also a great side to just about any main course. Here are some great healthy entrees to consider:

• Chicken Piccata
• Easy Air Fryer Steak Bite
• Chimichurri Chicken
• Baked Snapper with Compound Butter
• Mediterranean Shrimp Pan Shrimp
• Cast Iron Steak with Mushrooms

🔄 Substitutions and Additions

• Meats: Swap in Genoa or pepperoni if you don’t have Soppressata.

• Cheese: Use shaved Parmesan or Romano instead of provolone for a sharper bite.

• Crunch: Add diced cucumber or red bell pepper for extra crunch.

• Briny bites: Mix in artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for more antipasto vibes.

• Greens: Throw in a handful of arugula for a peppery twist.

• Beans: Use cannellini beans in place of chickpeas for a softer texture.

• Pasta: Toss in some cooked, cooled pasta for a pasta salad version.

• Proteins: Skip the salami and add grilled chicken or tuna for a different protein option.

• Spices: Make it spicy by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

Why is My Salad Soggy?

You may have added the dressing too early or didn’t dry the greens thoroughly. Always dress just before serving.

Can I Use Bagged Salad Mix?

You can, but it won’t have the same crunch. Romaine and radicchio hold up better and give that signature texture.

Is This Salad Keto-Friendly?

It’s naturally low in carbs, especially if you go light on the chickpeas or leave them out entirely.

Can I Prep This Salad in Advance?

Yes! Just keep the ingredients separated and combine everything right before serving.

What if I Don’t Like Olives?

Just leave them out or swap them for capers, roasted red peppers, or even diced pickles for a little tang.

🍽️ More Tasty Salad Recipes

• Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
• Greek Quinoa Salad
• Pickled Beet Salad
• Greek Pasta Salad
• Easy Italian Pasta Salad
• Chicken Caesar Salad