If you are craving a salad that bursts with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and a perfect balance of fresh and savory, this Antipasto Salad Recipe will quickly become your go-to. It combines juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and savory salami with bright basil and tangy pepperoncini, all dressed simply with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Whether you need an impressive dish for a gathering or a refreshing dinner side, this salad is effortlessly delicious and endlessly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Antipasto Salad Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list, each element playing a crucial role in delivering authentic taste and texture. Simple yet essential, these ingredients create a vibrant medley that feels both fresh and indulgent.
- 4 heirloom tomatoes: Choose ripe, colorful tomatoes for natural sweetness and gorgeous presentation.
- 16 ounces fresh mozzarella: Creamy slices that add a luscious richness and soft texture.
- 6 ounces salami: Adds a savory, slightly spicy kick; feel free to substitute with your favorite cured meat.
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves: Delivers an aromatic freshness that brightens the entire salad.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes: Adds small bursts of juicy flavor and extra color contrast.
- 1/3 cup pepperoncini: Brings a mild tangy heat that perfectly complements the richer ingredients.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: A silky drizzle that enhances every bite with fruity depth.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze: Sweet and tangy, it adds complexity and a glossy finish.
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: To season and bring out the flavors evenly.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and earthiness.
How to Make Antipasto Salad Recipe
Step 1: Layer the Core Ingredients
Begin by arranging slices of heirloom tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, salami, and individual basil leaves in a repeating pattern inside a 9×13 inch baking dish. Creating two neat lines helps the salad look beautiful and ensures each serving has a little bit of everything.
Step 2: Add Cherry Tomatoes and Pepperoncini
Next, scatter the cherry tomatoes and pepperoncini on the side of the dish to introduce pops of color and tang. Fold any remaining slices of salami and nestle them around the edges, adding extra depth of flavor and an inviting presentation.
Step 3: Dress and Season
Finish by drizzling extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze evenly over the entire dish. Then sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to perfectly balance all the flavors. This light dressing enhances the salad’s freshness without overpowering the ingredients.
How to Serve Antipasto Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an elevated presentation, consider garnishing with additional fresh basil leaves or a few whole pepperoncini on top. A light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can add a delightful savory edge, too. These little touches make the salad even more inviting and flavorful.
Side Dishes
This Antipasto Salad Recipe pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic focaccia that can soak up the luscious juices. It also complements antipasto platters, grilled meats, or pasta dishes wonderfully, making it a versatile side for your favorite meals.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad family-style on a large platter for a casual meal, or portion it into small individual bowls for elegant entertaining. You can also layer the ingredients in clear glass containers to showcase their vibrant colors if you’re bringing it to a picnic or potluck.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Antipasto Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to avoid sogginess, or add a little extra olive oil before serving to refresh the texture.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and olive oil-based dressing, freezing this salad is not recommended. The tomatoes and fresh mozzarella will lose their texture and become watery once thawed.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, you can let leftovers sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to come alive again, but avoid applying heat as it will alter the fresh ingredients.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Antipasto Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella is traditional and offers a lovely creaminess, you can experiment with burrata for extra richness or a firm cheese like provolone if you prefer a different texture.
Is pepperoncini very spicy?
Pepperoncini peppers add a mild tangy heat rather than intense spiciness, making them perfect for even those sensitive to spice. They contribute a pleasant zing that lifts the flavors without overwhelming.
Can I prepare this salad vegan or vegetarian?
For a vegetarian option, simply omit the salami or swap it for roasted vegetables or marinated tofu. To make it vegan, replace mozzarella with plant-based cheese and omit meat. The olive oil and balsamic glaze keep it flavorful and fresh.
What’s the best way to slice the tomatoes for this recipe?
Use a sharp knife or a tomato slicer to cut the heirlooms into even, about 1/4-inch thick slices. This ensures they hold their shape and layer nicely with the other ingredients without becoming mushy.
Can I double or halve this recipe easily?
Yes! This Antipasto Salad Recipe scales wonderfully. Just adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally based on your serving needs, and use a larger or smaller dish to layer everything evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Antipasto Salad Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels effortless yet impresses every time. The combination of fresh and cured ingredients, simple but flavorful dressings, and the vibrant look make it a delight to prepare and enjoy. I hope you give it a try and fall in love with it as much as I have!
Print
Antipasto Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This vibrant Antipasto Salad combines fresh heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and savory salami layered with fresh basil and tangy pepperoncini. Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze, it makes a refreshing and colorful appetizer perfect for gatherings or a light meal.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- 16 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 6 ounces salami (or other cured meat)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/3 cup pepperoncini
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Arrange Ingredients: Arrange the tomato slices, mozzarella slices, salami, and basil leaves in a repeating pattern in two lines inside a 9×13 inch baking dish to create an appealing layered effect.
- Add Additional Elements: Place the cherry tomatoes and pepperoncini on the side of the dish. Fold any remaining salami slices and position them around the edges of the baking dish for added flavor and presentation.
- Dress and Season: Drizzle the entire arrangement evenly with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. Then, sprinkle the dish with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe heirloom tomatoes for the best flavor and color contrast.
- You can substitute salami with other cured meats like prosciutto or pepperoni if desired.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the salami and add marinated artichokes or roasted red peppers.
- Serve immediately or chill for up to 1 hour to allow flavors to meld before serving.
- Adjust balsamic glaze quantity to taste, depending on your preference for sweetness and tang.
