Antipasto Salad (easy make ahead meal)

Antipasto Salad Recipe with fresh romaine lettuce, salami, ham, provolone cheese, summer tomatoes, artichoke hearts and crispy chickpeas. Easy, make ahead no-cook meal or side.

This Antipasto Salad is packed with bold flavor and comes together in minutes.

Italian meats, cheese, artichokes and fresh vegetables tossed in balsamic vinaigrette. It’s the answer to what’s for dinner on a hot summer day – or – the perfect side dish with pizza.

Protein packed perfect for meal prep or entertaining. This salad delivered in a big way with minimal effort.

Why I love this recipe:

• No cooking required

• Make ahead for stress-free entertaining or quick lunches

• Low carb, gluten-free, and totally satisfying

• Customizable with your favorite Italian deli items

Ingredients needed for this Antipasto Salad:

• Greens – romaine lettuce chopped (can also use any mixed greens)
• Tomatoes – large tomato, grape or cherry tomatoes
• Crispies – air fried chickpeas (see directions below – can also oven-roast)
• Cured meats – salami, ham, pepperoni or prosciutto
• Cheese – provolone cheese,mozzarella balls or parmesan chunks
• Marinated vegetables: roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, pepperoncini

You’ll also need a bottle of your favorite Italian salad dressing or the ingredients below to make your own:

• olive oil
• balsamic vinegar
• honey
• Dijon mustard
• dry Italian seasoning
• garlic powder
• salt and pepper

How to make an Antipasto Salad:

1. Chop and prep all your ingredients. Drain the artichoke hearts.

2. Layer everything in a large salad bowl – start with greens (if using), then pile on the meats, cheese, and veggies.

3. Toss with dressing just before serving or serve it on the side.

4. Garnish with fresh herbs, cracked black pepper, or shaved parmesan.

💡 Make Ahead Tip: Assemble the salad up to a day in advance – just leave off the dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep everything crisp and fresh.

Add the ingredients for the dressing to jar with a lid. Shake until combined then set aside.

How to make air fryer crispy chickpeas:crispy air fryer chickpeas:

• canned chickpeas (garbanzo beans) – drained and dried well
• olive oil
• sea salt or kosher salt

Preheat the air fryer to 400°. Drain the chickpeas then dry well. Toss with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until they’re as crispy.

Note:

• Don’t panic if you hear a popping sound while the chickpeas are air frying. They’re okay!
• Pause and give the air fryer basket a good shake about halfway through.
• You can roast the chickpeas instead at 400 degrees for 20-30 minutes or until crisp

Subs and variations:

fresh basil, sun-dried tomatoes, grilled zucchini

• Sliced red onion
• Fresh basil
• Sun dried tomatoes
• Grilled zucchimi
• Black olives
• Prosciutto
• Mozzarella Balls
• Pepperoni
• Roasted red peppers
• Pepperoncini

Tips for the best Antipasto Salad:

• Use good-quality deli meats and cheeses for the best flavor.

• Drain marinated veggies well so the salad doesn’t get soggy.

• Chop everything bite-sized for easy eating.

• Make it vegetarian – skip the meat and adding extra veggies like grilled eggplant or zucchini

• Want a heartier version? Add cooked tortellini to turn it into a pasta hybrid.

FAQ:

What is antipasto salad?

Antipasto salad is a fresh, Italian-inspired dish that includes cured meats, cheeses, lmarinated vegetables, and fresh ingredients – typically served over greens or on its own. It’s inspired by the traditional antipasto platter, which is served as the first course of an Italian meal.

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Can I make antipasto salad ahead of time?

Yes! This is a great make-ahead salad. Prep all the components up to a day in advance and store them separately or layered in a container. Add dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.

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What dressing is best for antipasto salad?

Your favorite Italian vinaigrette or red wine vinaigrette pairs beautifully. You can also use the recipe for my homemade balsamic dressing – whatever fits your taste!

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How long does antipasto salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container (without dressing), it’ll keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. It’s a great option for quick lunches or easy dinners during the week.

What goes with Antipasto Salad?

This hearty salad is a meal on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• Cheesy garlic breadsticks

• Grilled shrimp for added protein

• Minestrone Soup or Tomato Soup

• Pizza 

• Pasta dishes like Pasta Alla Vodka  or Sausage Rigatoni

Ready to make it? This Antipasto Salad is as flexible as it is delicious. Use what you have, skip what you don’t and make it your own! Whether you’re meal prepping, planning a dinner party, or just craving something fresh and hearty, this salad delivers every time.

Enjoy!

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