Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad is a true local favorite that brings together fresh ingredients with bold flavors. Originating from Baltimore’s vibrant culinary scene this salad perfectly balances crisp greens with savory toppings for a satisfying meal or side dish.
We love how this recipe highlights the best of Baltimore’s food culture with a mix of textures and tastes that keep every bite exciting. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering this salad delivers on both flavor and simplicity.
Let’s dive into how to make Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad so you can enjoy a taste of this iconic dish right at home. It’s easy to prepare and packed with ingredients you’ll want to keep coming back to.
Ingredients
To craft the authentic Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring out its signature bold flavors and satisfying textures. Below are the essential components for both the salad and the dressing that make this dish stand out.
Salad Ingredients
We start with fresh, vibrant produce and classic Baltimore touches to build our salad base:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped crisp
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved for juicy bursts
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced thin for crunch
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely sliced for sharpness
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced for depth
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded for rich flavor
- 1/4 pound cooked Baltimore-style pit beef, thinly sliced for authentic taste
- 1/4 cup pickled pepperoncini, chopped to add tangy heat
- 1/4 cup croutons, for added crunch
Dressing Ingredients
The dressing balances the bold flavors with a zesty, slightly creamy finish:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1/3 cup | Use high-quality for creaminess |
| Prepared horseradish | 2 tablespoons | Essential for signature zing |
| White vinegar | 1 tablespoon | Adds acidity |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 teaspoon | Deepens flavor complexity |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon | For subtle savory notes |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | To taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | To taste |
This combination of ingredients ensures our Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad stays true to its heritage with a perfect balance of freshness, spice, and savoriness.
Tools and Equipment Needed
To make Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad perfectly at home, having the right tools and equipment simplifies the process and ensures every ingredient is prepared just right. Here is a thorough list of what we need:
- Cutting Board
A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
Essential for slicing vegetables thinly and precisely, which helps maintain the texture and bite of the salad.
- Mixing Bowls
We need at least two bowls: one large bowl to toss the salad and one smaller bowl to prepare the dressing.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Accurate measurement tools ensure the perfect balance of dressing ingredients like mayonnaise, horseradish, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Whisk
For thoroughly combining the salad dressing ingredients into a smooth and creamy texture.
- Salad Spinner
This tool is highly effective for drying freshly washed romaine lettuce leaves, helping the dressing adhere better and preventing sogginess.
- Grater
To shred the sharp cheddar cheese finely, adding the ideal melt-in-the-mouth sharpness.
- Serving Platter or Salad Bowl
A wide bowl or platter helps display the salad attractively and makes mixing easy.
- Tongs or Salad Servers
These assist in tossing the salad gently without bruising the ingredients, especially when adding the pit beef and croutons.
Summary Table of Tools
| Tool | Purpose | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Board | Chopping vegetables | Safety and convenience |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Slicing and dicing ingredients | Precision and texture retention |
| Mixing Bowls | Combining ingredients | Organized preparation |
| Measuring Spoons/Cups | Measuring exact ingredient quantities | Flavor balance |
| Whisk | Blending dressing | Smooth, well-emulsified dressing |
| Salad Spinner | Washing and drying lettuce | Crispness and dressing adherence |
| Grater | Shredding cheddar cheese | Even cheese distribution |
| Serving Platter/Bowl | Presenting and mixing salad | Visual appeal and ease of tossing |
| Tongs/Salad Servers | Tossing and serving salad | Gentle handling of delicate items |
Prep Work
Before we assemble our Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad, careful preparation of each ingredient ensures the freshest and most flavorful result. Let’s break down the essential steps for washing, chopping, and preparing every component.
Washing and Chopping Vegetables
Proper cleaning and precise chopping of vegetables set the foundation for this crisp salad.
- Romaine Lettuce: Rinse the leaves thoroughly in cold water using a salad spinner to remove dirt and grit. Spin dry completely to ensure the dressing clings well. Tear into bite-sized pieces by hand to maintain texture.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Rinse under cool running water. Slice each tomato in half for juicy bursts of flavor.
- Cucumber: Wash well and peel if desired. Cut into thin rounds or half-moons depending on preference.
- Red Onion: Peel and slice thinly to avoid overpowering the salad’s balance.
- Black Olives: Drain any liquid from canned olives and gently pat dry with a paper towel.
| Vegetable | Preparation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Romaine Lettuce | Rinse, spin dry, tear | Keep pieces bite-sized |
| Cherry Tomatoes | Rinse, halve | Juicy and fresh |
| Cucumber | Wash, peel (optional), slice | Thin rounds or half-moons |
| Red Onion | Peel, thinly slice | Use sparingly for balance |
| Black Olives | Drain, pat dry | Avoid extra moisture |
Preparing Protein Components
The protein is crucial for the heartiness and authenticity of our Baltimore Salad.
- Baltimore-Style Pit Beef: If not pre-sliced, carve thin slices against the grain for tenderness. Warm briefly if preferred, but cool before adding to the salad.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Use a grater to shred cheese finely. Freshly shredded cheese melts slightly on warm beef, adding richness.
- Pickled Pepperoncini: Drain liquid and slice into rings or halves to distribute the tangy spice evenly.
Making the Dressing
The dressing balances the salad’s bold flavors with a creamy zest.
Combine the following in a mixing bowl and whisk until smooth:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Creamy base |
| Prepared Horseradish | 2 tbsp | Sharp spice |
| White Vinegar | 1 tbsp | Acidity |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tsp | Umami depth |
| Garlic Powder | ½ tsp | Subtle savory note |
| Salt | ¼ tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Freshly Ground Black Pepper | ¼ tsp | Mild heat and aroma |
Whisk vigorously until the dressing is smooth and homogeneous. Adjust seasoning to taste, keeping in mind the bold character of the salad’s ingredients.
By handling each element meticulously, we set the stage for assembling a vibrant, flavorful Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad that honors its iconic heritage.
Instructions
Let’s bring all the vibrant components together step-by-step to create the iconic Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad. Careful assembly and dressing ensure every bite delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Assembling the Salad
- Prepare the Base: Place the washed and dried romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl or serving platter. Ensure it is evenly spread to form a crisp, green foundation.
- Add Fresh Vegetables: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced cucumber, and finely sliced red onion evenly over the lettuce. Distribute the black olives across the top for rich, briny contrast.
- Incorporate Key Proteins and Cheese: Layer bite-sized pieces of tender Baltimore-style pit beef evenly. Sprinkle a generous handful of shredded sharp cheddar cheese across the salad surface.
- Add Crunch and Spice: Top with sliced pickled pepperoncini and crisp croutons for a hint of heat and satisfying crunch.
“Layering the ingredients thoughtfully allows every forkful to capture the true essence of Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad.”
Tossing the Salad with Dressing
- Pour the Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the assembled salad. Use approximately ½ cup dressing for a medium-large salad serving to ensure balanced flavor.
- Gently Toss: Using salad servers or tongs, gently toss the salad, lifting and folding ingredients to coat evenly without bruising the delicate vegetables and greens.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste a small sample and add more dressing or seasoning if needed, keeping the flavors bold but harmonious.
| Step | Action | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Pour Dressing | Evenly drizzle dressing | Start with less add more as needed |
| 2. Toss Salad | Fold gently over salad | Avoid crushing ingredients |
| 3. Taste & Adjust | Check seasoning | Balance acidity and spice |
Final Garnishes and Presentation
- Add Extra Croutons: Scatter a few more croutons on top for a fresh crunch just before serving.
- Sprinkle Fresh Herbs: Optionally add chopped fresh parsley or chives for a bright herbal note.
- Serve Immediately: Present the salad on a large platter or bowl. Serve with extra dressing on the side for guests who want more.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad, we recommend serving it fresh and chilled for optimal flavor and texture. Here are some tailored suggestions to elevate your dining experience:
- Serve Immediately After Tossing: The crisp romaine combined with the tangy dressing and tender pit beef tastes best right after preparation. This prevents sogginess and keeps the croutons delightfully crunchy.
- Ideal Pairings: Complement this bold salad with classic Baltimore sides such as Old Bay seasoned crab cakes, crusty garlic bread, or a cold pilsner beer to embrace regional flavors.
- Plating Ideas: Use a wide shallow bowl or rustic wooden platter to showcase the vibrant colors and textures. Garnish with extra pickled pepperoncini and a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar for visual appeal.
- Temperature Tips: Keep the salad ingredients cold before assembly and chill the serving dish if possible. This preserves the refreshing sensation when eating.
- Portioning: This salad shines both as a hearty main course and as a shared appetizer. For group settings, serve in a large bowl with tongs to allow guests to customize their serving.
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Serving Temperature | Cold / Chilled |
| Dish Type | Large bowl or wooden platter |
| Pairings | Crab cakes, garlic bread, pilsner beer |
| Garnish | Extra pickled pepperoncini, cheddar |
| Ideal Occasion | Lunch, dinner, gatherings |
“Serving Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad with traditional Baltimore sides intensifies its authentic taste profile, making every bite a journey through local flavors.”
By following these serving tips, we ensure every forkful offers the perfect balance of freshness, spice, and savoriness that makes this salad an iconic dish.
Make-Ahead Tips
To master the Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad experience, preparation is key. Here are essential tips to make this iconic salad ahead of time while preserving its vibrant flavors and textures.
Prep Ingredients Separately
- Wash and dry the romaine lettuce thoroughly using a salad spinner. Store in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture and maintain crispness.
- Chop vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Keep them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to prevent flavor intermingling.
- Slice the Baltimore-style pit beef and shred sharp cheddar cheese. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in sealed containers to preserve freshness.
- Keep croutons and pickled pepperoncini in separate containers at room temperature to maintain their crunch and tang.
Prepare Dressing in Advance
Make the dressing up to 2 days before serving to allow flavors to meld.
| Dressing Ingredient | Measure | Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Airtight jar in refrigerator |
| Prepared horseradish | 1 tablespoon | Airtight jar in refrigerator |
| White vinegar | 1 tablespoon | Airtight jar in refrigerator |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 teaspoon | Airtight jar in refrigerator |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon | Dry storage |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Dry storage |
| Freshly ground black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Dry storage |
“Preparing the dressing ahead allows the bold horseradish and Worcestershire notes to fully develop, enhancing the overall salad experience.”
Assembly & Serving Timing
- Combine all ingredients just before serving to ensure maximum crispness and flavor contrast.
- Toss the salad gently with the prepared dressing using salad servers or tongs.
- Garnish immediately to preserve the croutons’ crunch and pepperoncini’s zestiness.
Storage Recommendations
| Ingredient | Storage Method | Maximum Storage Time |
|---|---|---|
| Romaine lettuce | Airtight container, refrigerated | 2 days |
| Chopped vegetables | Airtight containers, refrigerated | 2 days |
| Pit beef and shredded cheese | Sealed containers, refrigerated | 3 days |
| Dressing | Airtight jar, refrigerated | 2 days |
| Croutons and pepperoncini | Airtight container, dry area | 3-5 days |
Following these Make-Ahead Tips will help us enjoy an effortlessly fresh and authentic Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad anytime.
Conclusion
Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of Baltimore’s rich culinary heritage. With its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether a quick meal or a festive gathering.
By following the recipe and preparation tips, we can bring a taste of Baltimore right into our kitchens. It’s a refreshing way to enjoy bold, balanced flavors that honor tradition while delighting our palates.
Let’s embrace this iconic salad and make it a staple in our meal rotation, savoring every bite of its unique and delicious combination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad?
Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad is a popular local dish that combines fresh romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, black olives, shredded cheddar cheese, Baltimore-style pit beef, pickled pepperoncini, and croutons, topped with a creamy horseradish-mayo dressing. It showcases bold, fresh flavors unique to Baltimore’s culinary scene.
What ingredients are essential for this salad?
Key ingredients include romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, sharp cheddar cheese, Baltimore-style pit beef, pickled pepperoncini, croutons, and a dressing made from mayonnaise, horseradish, white vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
What tools do I need to make Chiapparelli’s Baltimore Salad?
You’ll need a cutting board, sharp chef’s knife, mixing bowls, measuring spoons and cups, a whisk for the dressing, salad spinner to dry lettuce, grater for cheese, a serving bowl or platter, and salad tongs or servers.
How do I prepare the ingredients for the salad?
Wash and dry the romaine lettuce thoroughly. Chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and black olives evenly. Shred the sharp cheddar cheese and slice the Baltimore-style pit beef. Prepare the dressing by whisking together the mayo, horseradish, and seasoning.
How should I assemble the salad?
Start with the romaine lettuce base, add chopped vegetables, pit beef, and cheese. Top with croutons and pickled pepperoncini. Drizzle dressing evenly and toss gently to combine. Garnish with extra croutons or fresh herbs before serving.
Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients separately and store in airtight containers. Make the dressing up to two days in advance for better flavor. Keep ingredients chilled and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
What are some good serving suggestions for this salad?
Serve the salad fresh and chilled in a wide shallow bowl or rustic wooden platter. Pair it with Baltimore classics like Old Bay crab cakes, garlic bread, or a cold pilsner beer. It works well as a main dish or appetizer for sharing.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep salad components separate—store vegetables and beef in airtight containers in the fridge. Refrigerate the dressing separately. Avoid tossing leftovers with dressing until ready to eat to preserve crunch and flavor. Consume within 1-2 days.