How to Make an Italian-Style Mixed Vegetable Salad
Italian-style mixed vegetable salad, or "insalata mista," is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the flavors of the Mediterranean. This salad is not only a fantastic side to any meal but can also be enjoyed on its own. Below are the steps to create a delicious Italian-style mixed vegetable salad.
Ingredients Needed
- 2 cups of mixed greens (e.g., arugula, radicchio)
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup of black olives, pitted and sliced
- ½ cup of mozzarella balls or diced feta cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing all your vegetables under cold running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half, slice the cucumber, and dice the bell pepper. Thinly slice the red onion and set all the vegetables aside.
2. Mix the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and mozzarella balls or feta cheese. Gently toss the mixture to combine all the ingredients evenly.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
4. Combine the Salad and Dressing
Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetable salad and toss gently until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
5. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an added touch of flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy your Italian-style mixed vegetable salad chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for the Perfect Salad
- For added protein, consider including grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Experiment with seasonal vegetables to keep the salad fresh and interesting.
- Try using different types of vinegar, such as red wine vinegar or lemon juice, for a unique twist.
This Italian-style mixed vegetable salad is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Enjoy the fresh flavors and healthy ingredients of this delightful salad!