Pepperoni & Mozzarella Antipasto Salad

Name: Pepperoni & Mozzarella Antipasto Salad
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup small pepperoni discs; 1 cup mozzarella (torn into cubes); 2 cups butter lettuce (torn); 2 tbsp capers; 1 cup cucumber (halved, deseeded & sliced); 1 cup artichoke quarters (tinned); 0.5 cup green olives; 1 piece red pepper (roasted); 1 piece yellow pepper (roasted); 0.5 cup sundried tomatoes (marinated in oil); 2 tbsp crispy onion sprinkles; 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves (torn); 1 tbsp lemon zest; 3 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 clove garlic; 1 piece fresh oregano stalk; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 3 tbsp pure olive oil; 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar; salt & pepper to taste

A delightful and flavorful antipasto salad featuring pepperoni, mozzarella, and a variety of fresh and marinated vegetables.

Step 1

Remove the skins from the roasted peppers. Tear the flesh parts of the peppers and remove all seeds. Place the torn peppers into a small bowl.

Step 2

Heat a small pan to smoking hot. Add the vegetable oil, then add the artichoke quarters. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté the artichokes until golden brown. Remove from the pan and add to the bowl with peppers.

Step 3

Cut the sundried tomatoes into slithers and add to the peppers and artichokes. Pour the oil from the marinated sundried tomatoes over the peppers, artichokes, and sundried tomatoes as part of your marinade.

Step 4

Add the green olives, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic clove, oregano stalk, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well, then cover the bowl and let it marinate for about 2 hours.

Step 5

Strain and keep the marinade in the fridge to use as a salad dressing for another occasion.

Step 6

Assemble the salad on a platter, starting with the butter lettuce and cucumber slices, followed by the peppers, artichokes, olives, and sundried tomatoes.

Step 7

Top with pepperoni discs, mozzarella cheese, and capers. Using two forks, gently mix the salad. Sprinkle with the crispy onion sprinkles and garnish with torn basil leaves.

Step 8

Serve with balsamic vinegar and pure olive oil on the side.

For a vegetarian version, omit the pepperoni.

You can prepare the roasted peppers and marinated vegetables a day in advance to save time.

How do I prepare the roasted peppers for the Pepperoni & Mozzarella Antipasto Salad?

To prepare the roasted peppers, remove the skins and tear the flesh, discarding the seeds. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your antipasto salad.

Can I make the Pepperoni & Mozzarella Antipasto Salad vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the pepperoni and replace it with additional vegetables or plant-based protein. For a vegan version, you can substitute the mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative.

What are some good substitutions for ingredients in the Pepperoni & Mozzarella Antipasto Salad?

If you don't have certain ingredients, you can substitute the pepperoni with salami or turkey slices. Instead of mozzarella, try feta cheese or a dairy-free option. You can also use any leafy greens in place of butter lettuce.

How should I store leftover Pepperoni & Mozzarella Antipasto Salad?

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. You can keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

What dishes pair well with Pepperoni & Mozzarella Antipasto Salad?

This antipasto salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled chicken, or a light pasta dish. It also makes a great appetizer for Italian-themed dinners or gatherings.