Antipasto Salad - Once Upon a Chef (2024)

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My antipasto salad is the classic platter turned into an easy yet show-stopping salad. Pair it with pizza for a casual night in, or serve it as a side to liven up simple grilled meats—all with minimal effort!

Antipasto Salad - Once Upon a Chef (1)

Antipasto salad: the classic antipasto platter reimagined as an abundant, crave-worthy salad. This version includes marinated olives and artichokes, two types of cheese, pickled red onions, pepperoni or salami, and lots of fresh veggies, all tossed in a garlicky Italian vinaigrette that packs a delicious punch.

You can serve this salad as a light main course with artisan bread, or as a side dish to stromboli, grilled chicken or grilled flank steak. My favorite way to enjoy it, though, is with take-out pizza. This is a fantastic dinner shortcut not only for busy weeknights but also for entertaining. If you’re having casual company, simply order a few of your favorite pies, toss this crowd-pleasing salad, and whip up a quick homemade dessert. With this no-stress menu, you can host a fun get-together and impress your friends and family without putting in too much effort.

Table of Contents

  • What You’ll Need To Make Antipasto Salad
  • Step-by-Step Instructions
  • You May Also Like
  • Printable Recipe
  • Reviews

“I made this tonight for dinner…such great flavors, especially liked the pickled onions.”

What You’ll Need To Make Antipasto Salad

Antipasto Salad - Once Upon a Chef (2)

Find the printable recipe with specific measurements below.

  • Pickled Red Onion: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor along with a delightful crunch.
  • Red Wine Vinaigrette: Made from red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, and extra-virgin olive oil, this vinaigrette brings a zesty and herby flavor that complements the other ingredients.
  • Romaine Lettuce: Forms the fresh, crunchy base of the salad.
  • Marinated/Seasoned Pitted Olives: These are coarsely chopped to ensure their rich, briny flavor is evenly distributed throughout the salad.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Add a burst of sweetness and a juicy texture.
  • Bell Pepper: Thinly sliced, these peppers contribute a sweet, crisp element.
  • Salami and/or Pepperoni: These cured meats bring a salty, savory depth to the salad.
  • Canned Chickpeas: Provide a hearty, nutty addition, and a great source of protein.
  • Jarred Marinated Artichoke Hearts, Drained: Lend a tangy, slightly earthy flavor.
  • Mozzarella Pearls: These small balls of fresh cheese add a creamy and mild flavor.
  • Sharp Provolone: Brings a bold, tangy cheese element that pairs well with the other robust flavors in the salad.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pickled Onions

In a small saucepan, bring the water, vinegar, sugar, and salt to a boil. Add the onion and simmer until crisp-tender, about 3 minutes.

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Drain and set aside to cool.

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Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

In a medium bowl, whisk together the vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, sugar, and pepper.

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While whisking, slowly pour in the oil to form an emulsion.

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Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine all of the salad ingredients. Add the dressing and pickled onions and toss to combine.

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Taste, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve.

Antipasto Salad - Once Upon a Chef (8)

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  • Recipe
  • Comments (18)
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Print

Antipasto Salad

By Jenn Segal

My antipasto salad is the classic platter turned into an easy yet show-stopping salad. Pair it with pizza for a casual night in, or serve it as a side to liven up simple grilled meats—all with minimal effort!

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 20 Minutes

Cook Time: 10 Minutes

Total Time: 30 Minutes

Ingredients

For the Pickled Red Onion

  • 2 cups water
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced (cut in half first, if desired)

For the Vinaigrette

  • ⅓ cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ⅔ cup extra-virgin olive oil

For the Salad

  • 8 cups chopped romaine, from 2 hearts
  • ⅔ cup marinated/seasoned pitted olives, coarsely chopped (see note)
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 red, yellow, or orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 8 ounces sliced salami and/or pepperoni
  • 1 (15-oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 heaping cup or 1 (6-oz) jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained (see note)
  • 1 (8-oz) package mozzarella pearls
  • 1½ cups coarsely shredded sharp Provolone

Instructions

  1. Make the Pickled Onions: In a small saucepan, bring the water, vinegar, sugar, and salt to a boil. Add the onion and simmer until crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. Make the Vinaigrette: In a medium bowl, whisk together the vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, sugar, and pepper. While whisking, slowly pour in the oil to form an emulsion.
  3. Make the Salad: In a large bowl, combine all of the salad ingredients. Add the dressing and pickled onions and toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve.
  4. Make-Ahead Instructions: The pickled onions and vinaigrette can be made up to 2 days ahead of time. Store in covered containers in the refrigerator.
  5. Notes: For the olives and artichokes, the olive bar at the supermarket is your best option (I use the kalamata/green olive blend).

Nutrition Information

Powered by Antipasto Salad - Once Upon a Chef (13)

  • Per serving (6 servings)
  • Calories: 813
  • Fat: 65 g
  • Saturated fat: 21 g
  • Carbohydrates: 29 g
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Fiber: 8 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Sodium: 1,405 mg
  • Cholesterol: 89 mg

Nutritional Data Disclaimer

This website is written and produced for informational purposes only. I am not a certified nutritionist and the nutritional data on this site has not been evaluated or approved by a nutritionist or the Food and Drug Administration. Nutritional information is offered as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. The data is calculated through an online nutritional calculator, Edamam.com. Although I do my best to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures should be considered estimates only. Varying factors such as product types or brands purchased, natural fluctuations in fresh produce, and the way ingredients are processed change the effective nutritional information in any given recipe. Furthermore, different online calculators provide different results depending on their own nutrition fact sources and algorithms. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator.

See more recipes:

  • Dinner
  • Salads
  • Italian

Comments

  • This is a great salad just as written – but it is so flexible feel I could make this weekly with some variations and be a really happy cook. Thanks

    See Also
    Döner Kebab

    • — Pam L on February 9, 2024
    • Reply
  • This salad is excellent. It is so hearty it can be used as a main course, with some crunchy sour dough. Loved it!

    • — Judy E Puckett on February 4, 2024
    • Reply
  • This salad was healthy and delicious. I asked for a chunk of Boars Head provolone from the Publix deli ( the meat and cheese cut to order section) then grated it at home

    • — J on June 16, 2023
    • Reply
    • I never stray from a recipe as written – my cooking instincts are terrible! So I used chickpeas even though they’re not my favorite. This salad may have turned me into a chickpea convert! Delicious 😋

      • — Alice on June 29, 2023
      • Reply
      • In my experience, people who don’t like chickpeas usually like them in Italian & Greek-style salads. Love them in this application! Delicious! Another win from @onceuponachef😍

        • — OG Balabusta on January 28, 2024
        • Reply
        • (it’s delicious without the meat)

          • — OG Balabusta on January 28, 2024
          • Reply
  • I used this recipe as a base, but made the dressing as written.
    Great to play with. I used some cooked penne, some salad greens, tomatoes, peppers, mozarella and parmiggiano, italian salami, olives, capers,… The kids did not eat the olives, but I knew it 😉
    The pickled onions are great, as is the dressing. I recommend both!
    The rest can be adjusted to taste – or fridge contents 😉 😀

    • — PJ on June 13, 2023
    • Reply
  • This recipe was an absolute hit at the anniversary party I took it to. This recipe is a keeper. Thank you for sharing your recipes. Tracy, June 11, 2023

    • — Tracy Woodley on June 12, 2023
    • Reply
  • Could this dressing be made with shallots instead of garlic and still be tasty? I know it’s unpopular to say this but I am just not a fan of raw garlic. Salad looks delicious.

    • — Jane on June 11, 2023
    • Reply
    • Sure, Jane, if you really don’t like garlic, it’s fine to use shallots. Hope you enjoy1

      • — Jenn on June 12, 2023
      • Reply
  • Fantastic salad. Everyone loved it. Omitted the Artichokes as not a fan.

    • — Trese on June 4, 2023
    • Reply
  • This salad was outstanding! Has ingredient flexibility. Added Kalamata olives and porcini pepper strips. Used bottled Kraft Greek salad dressing instead of making it fresh. Can definitely be a full dinner.

    • — Nadine Yurko on June 4, 2023
    • Reply
  • Made this tonight for dinner…..absolutely wonderful! I bought slices of provolone and cut them into thin strips as a block of provolone, for shredding, was not readily available at the grocery store. Going to have it again tomorrow for lunch!

    • — Nan on June 3, 2023
    • Reply
  • Your email arrived this morning with this recipe featured. I am always eager to try a new-to-me salad as my husband and I really like salads for dinner in the summertime. This one did not disappoint! We both enjoyed it immensely! I thought I had a red pepper but did not so I left that out. Couldn’t find provolone at my grocery store but substitute caciocavallo, which is sufficiently similar. Used lovely, flavourful moroccan black olives. Those pickled onions are great. Every bite was a new adventure. Thank you for another winner dinner.

    • — Cindy on June 1, 2023
    • Reply
  • I made this tonight for dinner…such great flavors, especially liked the pickled onions.
    Subbed a small chicken cutlet cubed for the pepperoni tonight, but may add it in the next time I eat it.
    Thanks for another great recipe!

    • — Mary Glassman on June 1, 2023
    • Reply
  • Made this today and it was wonderful! I knew it would be good…..since every recipe I’ve made from this website has been very good!

    • — Mary on June 1, 2023
    • Reply
  • Thank you for putting this and your artisan bread out in your newsletter today! They make a fabulous dinner combination. These will go on my menu list for next week!

    • — Betsy Lowe on June 1, 2023
    • Reply
    • I was just thinking the same! Thanks so much Jenn!

      • — Jen Evans on June 1, 2023
      • Reply

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Antipasto Salad - Once Upon a Chef (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between antipasto and antipasti? ›

Antipasto is the singular term (an antipasto), while antipasti refers to the collective or plural (a platter with different kinds of antipasti). If you're referring to a single appetizer, like a piece of cheese or bread, call it an antipasto.

Can you serve antipasto as a main course? ›

Too hot or too tired to cook? Consider making an antipasto dish as your main meal. Long considered a “first course” in traditional Italian meals or as a shared appetizer plate in Italian-American restaurants, antipasto dishes are filling and satisfying, can be made ahead, and best of all, can be served cold!

Does antipasto mean after the meal in Italy? ›

Antipasto in Italy

Literally, the word “antipasto” is derived from the Latin root “anti” meaning “before” and “pastus,” which means “meal.” Thus, the antipasto course simply refers to the dish that precedes all others.

Why is antipasto not antipasto? ›

Is it "antepasto" or "antipasto"? It is “antipasto” in italian language. The work is composed by 2 part: 1) “anti” → coming from old latin. it is a prexfix word which menas “before” and then 2) “pasto” → which is meal.

What does Italian antipasto consist of? ›

Antipasto means “before the meal” in Italian and can be any type of small meal, or appetizer, before the main dish. Typically, it ends up being a platter of cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables.

How long does antipasto last in the fridge? ›

Finally, mix the ingredients and dressing together thoroughly. Lastly, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Serve this as a delicious appetizer OR as a side to an entree. However you serve it, this antipasto salad is filled with delicious ingredients and packed with flavor.

What are the three types of antipasto? ›

The Different Types and Purposes of an Antipasto
  • Antipasto.
  • Primo: pasta, rice, gnocchi, soups.
  • Secondo: meat, fish, vegetarian.
  • Contorno: side dish.
  • Dolce: pastry, dessert.

What is the English equivalent of antipasto? ›

In the US, antipasto is thought of as an hors d'oeuvre or an appetizer. The word itself, antipasto, means "before the meal," from the roots anti-, "before," and pasto, "food." The plural of antipasto is antipasti. "Antipasto." Vocabulary.com Dictionary, Vocabulary.com, https://www.vocabulary.com/dictionary/antipasto.

Is charcuterie the same as antipasto? ›

Focus: Antipasto is a platter that contains a combination of cured meats, cheeses, vegetables, and other complementary items, whereas charcuterie is primarily focused on cured meats. Origin: Antipasto originated in Italy, while charcuterie is a French term.

What do Italians drink with antipasto? ›

Wine Pairing Italian Antipasti
  • Pairing Suggestions. A sparkling wine is always a good choice for Antipasti. Prosecco (Italy) ...
  • White Wines. If you choose White, go for something unoaked and fresh. ...
  • Red Wines. If you choose Red, go for something light and fruity. ...
  • Rosé Wines. If you choose Rosé, go for something light.

Is antipasto the same as hors d oeuvres? ›

Many compare antipasto to hors d'oeuvre, but antipasto is served at the table and signifies the official beginning of the Italian meal. It may also be referred to as a starter, or an appetizer.

Why do Italians eat salad at end of meal? ›

Serving salad after the main course of a meal is an older tradition in Italy, and nowadays it is usually observed at large and formal dinners rather than during everyday meals. Eating a salad after a meal can help digestion, while eating one before a meal may help discourage overeating.

What do Italians say before eating a meal? ›

Buon Appetito

You will hear this around the table quite frequently from friends, family and in restaurants right before you start your meal as a way to say “enjoy your meal”.

Is prosciutto an antipasto? ›

Antipasto is traditionally the first course of an Italian meal, but why not turn it into the main event. We use a winning combination of Mediterranean ingredients like prosciutto, mozzarella, and olives served over arugula. A quick-to-make vinaigrette and homemade croutons (bonus, there's minimal prep!)

How healthy is antipasto? ›

The short answer is that it depends on the makeup of it. If you choose to have antipasto that relies heavily on cheese, for example, it probably isn't going to be the healthiest! Antipasto dishes like the caprese and those that use a good amount of vegetables can also be healthy.

How to eat antipasto in a jar? ›

We like serving it with warmed pita, freshly baked bread, crispy crackers or toast, and an assortment of fresh vegetable crudité. Placing one 500ml jar of ANTIPASTO SAUCE into a bowl at a party will make a number of guests very happy. Try it on these PITA CRISPS – delish!

What are common antipasto meats? ›

Meats. In addition to the prosciutto, salami, and sopressata, consider using other Italian cured meats such as bresaola, capicola, and coppa. Another option is the spicy spreadable pork sausage 'nduja.

What are the ingredients in something special gourmet antipasto? ›

Ingredients. TOMATOES,CAULIFLOWER, CARROTS, SWEET PICKLED ONIONS,GREEN BEANS, dill pickles, black olives, green olives, mushrooms, green peppers, red peppers, tuna, distilled vinegar, canola oil, sugar, salt, olive oil, garlic, natural flavourings, tartrazine. contains mustard and sulphites.

What is the Italian starter of olives cheese and meat? ›

In Italian Antipasto is the singular form of the word, while antipasti is the plural form. So, for example, if you set out just a small plate of cheese, it's an antipasto, but if you also include a bowl of olives, a selection of cured meats, and some crackers or breadsticks, they are called collectively antipasti.

What is the difference between antipasto and charcuterie? ›

Focus: Antipasto is a platter that contains a combination of cured meats, cheeses, vegetables, and other complementary items, whereas charcuterie is primarily focused on cured meats. Origin: Antipasto originated in Italy, while charcuterie is a French term.

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