Vegetarian Maggiano’s Chopped Salad Recipe

This Vegetarian Maggiano’s Chopped Salad is a delightful and colorful dish that captures the essence of the original while omitting meat. It features fresh vegetables, creamy cheese, and a delicious dressing.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 3 romaine hearts (chopped)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 large avocado (chopped)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (or blue cheese for a stronger flavor)
• 1/3 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 cup cucumber (diced)

For the Dressing:

• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/3 cup canola oil
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

1. Make the Dressing:
   • In a food processor or blender, combine all dressing ingredients: sugar, dry mustard, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, white vinegar, and water.
   • Blend until smooth. Slowly add the canola oil and extra virgin olive oil while blending until emulsified. Set aside in the refrigerator.
2. Prepare the Salad:
   • In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped avocado, sliced red onion, black olives (if using), and crumbled feta cheese.
3. Combine:
   • Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. You may not need all the dressing; add to your taste preference.
4. Serve:
   • Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with additional feta cheese if desired and serve immediately.

Tips

• For added crunch, consider including toasted nuts or seeds.
• Feel free to customize by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or radishes.
• This salad can be made ahead of time; just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Can I Replace the Blue Cheese with Another Type of Cheese?

Yes, you can easily replace blue cheese with other types of cheese. Some good alternatives include:

• Feta Cheese: Provides a tangy flavor and crumbly texture.
• Goat Cheese: Offers a creamy and slightly tangy profile.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor without the strong taste of blue cheese.
• Cheddar Cheese: A sharper flavor that can complement the salad well.

What Are Some Good Vegetarian Alternatives to Prosciutto?

If you’re looking for vegetarian alternatives to prosciutto, consider:

• Smoked Tofu: Provides a similar smoky flavor and texture when sliced thinly.
• Coconut Bacon: Made from coconut flakes seasoned with liquid smoke and soy sauce, it offers a crispy, savory alternative.
• Marinated Eggplant or Zucchini: Thinly sliced and grilled or roasted, these can add a savory depth to the salad.
• Olives: For a briny flavor that complements the other ingredients.

How Can I Make the Salad Crisper?

To enhance the crispiness of your chopped salad:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all vegetables are fresh and crisp; avoid wilting.
• Add Crunchy Vegetables: Include ingredients like celery, radishes, or bell peppers for extra crunch.
• Chill Ingredients: Refrigerate your salad components before assembling to keep them cold and crisp.
• Include Nuts or Seeds: Adding toasted nuts (like almonds or walnuts) or seeds (like sunflower seeds) can provide an additional crunch.

Can I Use a Different Type of Vinegar for the Dressing?

Yes, you can substitute the vinegar in the dressing with other types. Some options include:

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a fruity tang.
• White Wine Vinegar: Offers a milder flavor that works well in salads.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Provides sweetness and depth, but may alter the overall taste slightly.

What Other Vegetables Can I Add to the Salad?

You can customize your chopped salad by adding various vegetables:

• Cucumbers: For added crunch and freshness.
• Bell Peppers: Sweetness and color can enhance the visual appeal.
• Carrots: Shredded or julienned for sweetness and texture.
• Radishes: For a peppery bite and crunch.
• Cherry Tomatoes: If not already included, they add juiciness and color.

How Can I Make a Vegan Version of Blue Cheese Dressing?

To make a vegan blue cheese dressing, you can use the following ingredients and method:Ingredients:

• ½ cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for at least 30 minutes)
• ¼ cup raw tahini
• ½ lemon (juiced)
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1–2 tablespoons water (to achieve desired thickness)

Instructions:

1. Soak the cashews in hot water for about 30 minutes, then drain.
2. In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, vinegar, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, and seasonings.
3. Add soaked cashews and blend until smooth. Adjust thickness with water as needed.
4. Stir in fresh dill and season to taste.

This dressing mimics the tangy flavor of blue cheese while being completely plant-based 12.

What Other Cheeses Have a Strong Flavor Like Blue Cheese?

If you’re looking for cheeses with a strong flavor similar to blue cheese, consider:

• Gorgonzola: A type of blue cheese that is milder but still pungent.
• Roquefort: Another blue cheese with a robust flavor profile.
• Feta Cheese: While not as strong as blue cheese, it has a tangy flavor that can add depth to salads.
• Aged Goat Cheese: Offers a tangy and slightly earthy flavor.

Can I Use Feta Cheese as a Substitute in Salads?

Yes, feta cheese can be used as a substitute in salads. It provides a tangy flavor and crumbly texture that complements many salad ingredients well. However, it lacks the distinct moldy flavor of blue cheese.

What Are Some Creamy Cheese Options for Salads?

For creamy cheese options to include in salads, consider:

• Burrata: A fresh Italian cheese that is creamy on the inside and pairs beautifully with salads.
• Cream Cheese: Can be used in dressings or dolloped on salads for richness.
• Ricotta: Light and fluffy, ricotta can add creaminess without overpowering other flavors.
• Goat Cheese: Soft goat cheese adds creaminess and tanginess.

These suggestions will help you customize your Maggiano’s Chopped Salad to suit your tastes while keeping it delicious and satisfying! Enjoy your meal!

Enjoy this vibrant Vegetarian Maggiano’s Chopped Salad as a refreshing side or light meal!