Chiapparelli’s Salad is a vibrant blend of fresh ingredients that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. Originating from a family tradition, this salad combines crisp vegetables with a tangy dressing that’s both simple and satisfying. It’s perfect for those looking to add a healthy yet delicious option to their table.
We love how easy it is to prepare and how versatile it can be. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a light main dish, Chiapparelli’s Salad offers a refreshing twist that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into this recipe and discover how to make this delightful salad a new favorite in our kitchens.
Ingredients
To create the authentic Chiapparelli’s Salad, we gather fresh, vibrant ingredients that bring both color and flavor to the plate. Below are the essential components to prepare this tangy, crisp salad.
Fresh Vegetables
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped finely
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, peeled and diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
- ½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing Ingredients
For the classic tangy dressing, we use:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | ⅓ cup |
| Red wine vinegar | 3 tablespoons |
| Fresh garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground |
Optional Add-Ins
To customize Chiapparelli’s Salad according to your taste, consider adding:
- 1 avocado, diced for creamy texture
- Feta cheese, crumbled for a salty tang
- Grilled chicken breast, sliced for added protein
- Toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch
These optional ingredients enhance the salad’s versatility without compromising its signature freshness.
Equipment Needed
To prepare Chiapparelli’s Salad perfectly, gathering the right equipment ensures a smooth process and a crisp fresh result. Here is what we need to have on hand:
- Large Salad Bowl
Use a wide bowl to toss the ingredients without spills, allowing even coating of the dressing.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
A sharp knife is essential for precise slicing of vegetables such as romaine lettuce, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
- Cutting Board
A sturdy cutting board supports safe and efficient chopping and slicing.
- Measuring Spoons
For accuracy, especially when adding the tangy dressing components like oregano, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Small Mixing Bowl
Use this to whisk the dressing thoroughly before pouring it over the salad.
- Whisk or Fork
To emulsify the dressing components into a smooth, tangy blend.
- Salad Tongs or Serving Spoons
For effortless mixing and serving of the salad to keep the dressing evenly distributed.
- Optional: Food Processor or Blender
If you prefer to blend the dressing ingredients for an extra smooth consistency.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Salad Bowl | Tossing and mixing salad ingredients |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Slicing vegetables precisely |
| Cutting Board | Preparing and chopping ingredients |
| Measuring Spoons | Accurate measurement of dressing spices |
| Small Mixing Bowl | Whisking salad dressing |
| Whisk or Fork | Emulsifying dressing components |
| Salad Tongs or Serving Spoons | Mixing and serving salad smoothly |
| Optional: Food Processor or Blender | Blending dressing for smooth texture |
Prep Work
Before we combine all the fresh ingredients to create Chiapparelli’s Salad, careful preparation ensures vibrant flavors and perfect texture in every bite. Let’s focus on washing, chopping, and dressing preparation to make the process seamless.
Washing and Chopping Vegetables
To maintain the salad’s crispness and freshness, start by thoroughly washing all vegetables under cold running water.
- Romaine Lettuce: Tear leaves into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry with a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel to avoid sogginess.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Slice in half to release their juicy sweetness.
- Cucumber: Peel if desired, then slice thinly or dice for textural balance.
- Red Onion: Peel and cut into thin rings or finely dice for a mild pungency.
- Green Bell Pepper: Remove seeds and membranes. Slice into thin strips for crunch.
- Kalamata Olives: Pit if necessary and slice in halves or quarters.
- Fresh Parsley: Finely chop to release its aromatic freshness.
| Vegetable | Preparation Detail | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Romaine Lettuce | Tear into bite-sized pieces | Maintain crunch |
| Cherry Tomatoes | Halve | Juicy and flavorful |
| Cucumber | Peel (optional), slice/dice | Crisp texture |
| Red Onion | Thin rings or diced | Mild, sharp contrast |
| Green Bell Pepper | Seed, slice strips | Adds crunch and sweetness |
| Kalamata Olives | Pit and halve/quarter | Briny flavor addition |
| Fresh Parsley | Finely chopped | Freshness and aroma |
Preparing the Dressing
The tangy dressing brings together the fresh vegetables with a perfect balance of acidity and richness. Follow these steps to prepare it:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste (start with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper)
- Whisk vigorously until the dressing emulsifies, achieving a smooth, creamy consistency that clings to the salad ingredients.
Tip: For a smoother dressing, use a food processor or blender and pulse until fully combined.
Properly balanced Chiapparelli’s Salad dressing elevates every bite with tangy brightness and herbaceous depth.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to prepare Chiapparelli’s Salad that bursts with fresh flavors and perfect texture.
Making the Dressing
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients precisely measured to maintain the perfect balance:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Red wine vinegar | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
- Whisk the ingredients vigorously until the dressing emulsifies into a smooth, tangy mixture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed; the dressing should have a bright acidity with balanced richness.
Tip: For a creamier texture, use a blender or food processor to mix the dressing.
Tossing the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, finely sliced red onion, diced green bell pepper, and pitted kalamata olives.
- Drizzle the freshly made dressing evenly over the vegetables.
- Using salad tongs or serving spoons, toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top to add a final burst of color and aroma.
Adding Optional Ingredients
Enhance our Chiapparelli’s Salad Recipe to suit your taste and occasion with these complementary additions:
| Add-in | Suggested Amount | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Avocado | 1 medium, diced | Add last to avoid browning |
| Feta cheese | 1/4 cup, crumbled | Sprinkle over salad before serving |
| Grilled chicken | 1 cup, sliced | Serve warm on top or toss in salad |
| Nuts (walnuts/pecans) | 1/4 cup, chopped | Toast lightly for extra crunch |
Fold these into the salad gently to keep textures intact while boosting flavor depth and richness.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy Chiapparelli’s Salad, we recommend several serving options that highlight its fresh flavors and vibrant textures.
1. As a Side Dish
Serve this salad alongside grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or fish. The crisp vegetables and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to rich, savory entrees.
2. Light Main Course
Turn the salad into a satisfying main by adding protein options. Consider including:
- Grilled chicken strips
- Slices of smoked salmon
- Quinoa or couscous for added texture
- Roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian boost
3. Accompaniment with Bread
Pair the salad with crusty artisan bread or warm pita. The bread helps soak up the zesty dressing, making every bite enjoyable.
4. Garnishing and Presentation Tips
- Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan on top for creamy, salty undertones.
- Toss in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy finish.
- Decorate with a few sprigs of fresh parsley to enhance the aroma and presentation.
5. Beverage Pairings
For an ideal meal, match Chiapparelli’s Salad with light, crisp beverages like:
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Sparkling water with lemon
- Iced herbal tea
| Serving Style | Recommended Pairings | Enhancements |
|---|---|---|
| Side Dish | Grilled meats, roasted vegetables | Lemon zest, extra parsley |
| Light Main Course | Grilled chicken, quinoa, smoked salmon | Avocado slices, feta cheese |
| Bread Accompaniment | Artisan bread, warm pita | Olive oil drizzle, cracked black pepper |
| Garnish & Presentation | Pine nuts, parsley, Parmesan | Fresh herbs, nuts |
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Chiapparelli’s Salad ahead of time can save us valuable minutes while ensuring flavors meld perfectly. Here’s how to maximize freshness and taste when making this vibrant salad in advance.
Separate Components for Optimal Freshness
For the crispiest results, keep the vegetables and dressing separate until just before serving. Store the chopped ingredients—romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, green bell pepper, kalamata olives, and fresh parsley—in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
| Component | Storage Tip | Max Time Stored |
|---|---|---|
| Chopped Vegetables | Airtight container, refrigerated | 1–2 days |
| Dressing | Small airtight jar or bottle | Up to 3 days |
Dressing Preparation and Storage
Create the classic tangy dressing using extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together or pulse briefly in a blender for smoother consistency. Store the dressing separately in a sealed jar or bottle to maintain its bright flavor.
Pro Tip: Shake or stir the dressing well before using, as ingredients may naturally separate over time.
Tossing and Final Assembly
When ready to serve, transfer the salad vegetables into a large bowl. Pour the dressing gradually, tossing gently with salad tongs or serving spoons to coat all ingredients evenly without bruising the delicate greens.
Incorporate optional add-ins such as avocado, feta cheese, grilled chicken, or nuts at this stage to keep their textures intact and flavors fresh.
Tips to Maintain Texture and Flavor
- Avoid sogginess: Do not combine dressing with salad until just before serving.
- Keep herbs fresh: Add fresh parsley last to retain its vibrant aroma.
- Chilling helps: Serve the salad chilled for a crisp and refreshing bite.
- Store leftovers separately: Refrigerate any uneaten dressed salad promptly in a sealed container.
By applying these make-ahead strategies, we ensure that Chiapparelli’s Salad not only saves prep time but also delivers the full burst of flavors and textures that make it so satisfying.
Conclusion
Chiapparelli’s Salad brings together fresh ingredients and a perfectly balanced dressing to create a dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Its versatility means it fits effortlessly into any meal, whether as a vibrant side or a nourishing main course.
By following the preparation tips and customizing with optional add-ins, we can enjoy a salad that’s always fresh, flavorful, and full of texture. This recipe is a great way to elevate everyday meals with a touch of tradition and bright, bold flavors.
Let’s keep this salad on our regular menu and enjoy the delicious benefits it offers anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in Chiapparelli’s Salad?
Chiapparelli’s Salad includes romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, green bell pepper, kalamata olives, and fresh parsley. These fresh vegetables create a colorful, flavorful base.
What makes the dressing for Chiapparelli’s Salad unique?
The dressing is tangy and made from extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and black pepper, blending acidity with richness.
Can I add protein to make Chiapparelli’s Salad a main dish?
Yes, optional add-ins like grilled chicken or quinoa can turn the salad into a light, satisfying main course.
How should I prepare the vegetables for the salad?
Wash thoroughly and chop vegetables evenly to maintain crispness and freshness, using a sharp knife and sturdy cutting board.
What equipment do I need to make the salad?
You’ll need a large salad bowl, chef’s knife, cutting board, measuring spoons, a small mixing bowl for dressing, and salad tongs or spoons.
How do I store the salad if I prepare it ahead of time?
Keep chopped vegetables and dressing separate in airtight containers, then combine and toss just before serving to preserve freshness.
Are there any suggested garnishes for Chiapparelli’s Salad?
Yes, garnishes like crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts add extra flavor and improve presentation.
What drinks pair well with Chiapparelli’s Salad?
Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon complement the salad’s fresh, tangy flavors nicely.
Can the dressing be made smoother using kitchen appliances?
Yes, you can use a food processor or blender to achieve a smoother dressing consistency if preferred.
How do I properly toss the salad?
Gently toss to evenly coat all ingredients with the dressing, ensuring each bite is flavorful without bruising the vegetables.