A classic Italian green salad recipe is the perfect combination of crisp greens, bold vinaigrette, and simple Mediterranean ingredients. With this recipe, you’ll master a healthy Italian salad that’s ideal for lunch, dinner, or as a refreshing side to pasta.
Italian cuisine is renowned for fresh simplicity. This salad brings that philosophy to your plate—no fuss, just flavor. From crunchy romaine to homemade vinaigrette, every bite is bursting with freshness. Learn how to pair it with dishes like authentic spaghetti carbonara or a light crispy walnut-crusted salmon.
🥬 What Goes Into a Traditional Italian Green Salad?
The key to a delicious Italian green salad recipe lies in fresh, high-quality ingredients:
- Romaine, arugula, or radicchio
- Cherry tomatoes and sliced cucumbers
- Thinly sliced red onions
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated
- Olive oil and vinegar-based dressing
Want more variations? Try adding lean protein like juicy lemon and herb chicken.
🫙 Classic Italian Vinaigrette – Homemade & Healthy
This Italian green salad dressing brings zesty balance to the salad:
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients and whisk until emulsified. This Mediterranean vinaigrette lasts up to a week when refrigerated.
✅ How to Make the Perfect Italian Green Salad
Follow these steps to ensure your Italian green salad recipe comes out perfect every time:
- Wash and dry greens thoroughly
- Slice vegetables finely for better texture
- Toss all veggies in a chilled salad bowl
- Drizzle with your homemade vinaigrette
- Top with shaved cheese and croutons
➡️ Pro tip: For added flavor, rub a garlic clove around the inside of your salad bowl.
🧑🍳 Easy Customizations for Your Italian Green Salad
This authentic Italian green salad can be tailored to your taste:
- Swap out parmesan for pecorino romano
- Add ingredients like roasted peppers or olives
- For a filling option, toss in tuna or beans
- Make it low-carb by skipping croutons
Try combining it with crispy boneless chicken thighs for a hearty meal.
🍷 What Pairs Well with Italian Green Salad?
This salad works well with many Italian dishes:
- Spaghetti, lasagna, or risotto
- Seafood like grilled shrimp or salmon
- A glass of Pinot Grigio or Chianti
Want expert pairing tips? Read this guide to salad and wine pairing for inspiration.
🥡 Storage & Meal Prep Tips
To keep your Italian green salad fresh:
- Store greens in paper towels inside an airtight container
- Keep vinaigrette separate until serving
- Use mason jars to layer ingredients for grab-and-go meals
Meal prepping? Make the salad base ahead of time, and add protein later.
💚 Nutrition: Why This Salad Is So Good for You
This healthy Italian green salad offers:
- Rich antioxidants from greens and tomatoes
- Heart-healthy fats from olive oil
- High fiber for digestion
- Naturally gluten-free and low-carb
For more healthy meals, try this easy chicken salad recipe.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Italian Green Salad Recipe
What is a traditional Italian salad made of?
A mix of greens, vegetables, herbs, and vinaigrette. Often topped with parmesan.
Is iceberg lettuce used in Italian salads?
Not traditionally. Romaine or arugula is preferred for authentic texture and flavor.
What’s the difference between Italian salad and Caesar salad?
Caesar salad uses a creamy dressing and anchovies. An Italian green salad is lighter and oil-based.
Can I add meat or seafood?
Absolutely. Add grilled chicken or top it with salmon for protein.
How do I keep salad from wilting?
Toss with dressing only before serving. Store separately to keep greens crisp.
✅ Wrap-Up: Why This Italian Green Salad Recipe Works
This Italian green salad recipe is an easy way to bring freshness and flavor to your table. With versatile toppings and a tangy homemade vinaigrette, it’s a go-to for busy weeknights, weekend dinners, and healthy meal prep.
Love simple, bold dishes? Explore more like this fresh lemon and herb chicken or our creamy cashew cream with lemon.
🥗 Italian Green Salad Recipe – Fresh, Flavorful & Easy
Ingredients
Salad
- 4 cups romaine lettuce chopped
- 1 cup arugula or radicchio
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ½ cup cucumber thinly sliced
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese shaved
- Optional: croutons grilled chicken, or chickpeas
Italian Vinaigrette
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the vinaigretteIn a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and oregano. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify. Season to taste.Prepare the saladWash and dry the lettuce and greens. Place in a large salad bowl.Assemble the saladAdd cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and parmesan cheese.Dress and tossAdd the vinaigrette just before serving. Toss gently to coat. Add croutons or optional protein, if using.
Notes
- Use a salad spinner to keep greens crisp.
- Add grilled salmon or chicken for a hearty version.
- Store dressing separately if prepping ahead.
- Substitute pecorino for a sharper cheese option.
