Vegetarian Maggiano’s Chopped Salad Recipe
This Vegetarian Maggiano’s Chopped Salad is inspired by the famous dish from Maggiano’s Little Italy, but without the meat. It features a mix of fresh vegetables, cheese, and a tangy dressing, making it a delicious and satisfying option.
Ingredients
- 4 cups romaine lettuce (chopped)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup cucumber (diced)
- 1/2 cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup bell peppers (diced)
- 1/2 cup carrots (shredded)
- 1/2 cup chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (or blue cheese for a more authentic flavor)
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives (sliced)
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell peppers, shredded carrots, chickpeas, and Kalamata olives.
Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine Ingredients:
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Add Cheese:
- Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
Serve:
- Serve immediately as a refreshing salad or refrigerate for up to an hour to let flavors meld.
Tips
- Feel free to customize with other vegetables like radishes or avocados for added creaminess.
- For added crunch, consider topping with sunflower seeds or nuts.
- This salad can be made ahead of time; just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
This Vegetarian Maggiano’s Chopped Salad is vibrant, nutritious, and perfect for any meal! Enjoy!