This Pizza Night Salad brings all the fun of pizza without the crust! Toss together fresh greens, colorful veggies, and your favorite pizza toppings. It’s a tasty way to enjoy pizza flavors!
Let’s be real, even salad can be a party! I love adding pepperoni and mozzarella for a little extra cheer. This makes my pizza-loving heart happy while being a bit healthier!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Salad Greens: Use a blend of romaine, radicchio, and leaf lettuce for texture and color. You can substitute any greens you like, such as spinach or arugula, if you prefer a different flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add sweetness. If they’re out of season, use diced regular tomatoes or even bell peppers for a crunchier option.
Fresh Mozzarella: This cheese gives a creamy texture. If you don’t have it, try using cubed feta or shredded mozzarella as a substitute.
Pine Nuts/Pistachios: Toasted nuts add a nice crunch. You can swap in sunflower seeds or almonds if you don’t have these nuts on hand.
Fresh Herbs: Basil or Italian parsley really brighten the salad. Fresh cilantro or dill can be fun alternatives if you want to change it up.
Pepperoni/Salami: These are optional pizza toppings. Chopped cooked chicken or turkey can work too for a protein boost.
How Do I Make My Salad Dressing Perfectly Balanced?
The dressing is key for a great salad! It should be tangy, yet balanced. Here’s how to make it:
- Combine olive oil and vinegar in a small bowl or jar.
- Add dried oregano and garlic. Whisk or shake until mixed well.
- For extra sweetness, mix in honey or sugar, adjusting to your taste.
- Season with salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Make sure to taste your dressing before drizzling it on. Adjust as needed—maybe a bit more vinegar or a pinch of salt!
With these tips, your pizza night salad will be vibrant and delicious, bringing pizza joy in every bite!
Pizza Night Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, radicchio, and leaf lettuce)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (a mix of red and yellow)
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, torn into bite-size pieces
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or chopped pistachios
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or Italian parsley
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced pepperoni or salami (optional)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, for balance)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for a casual pizza night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Greens:
Start by rinsing and drying the mixed salad greens thoroughly. Make sure to remove any excess water, as this will help the dressing stick better. Once dry, place the greens in a large salad bowl. This is the base of your delicious salad!
2. Add the Tomatoes and Cheese:
Next, halve the cherry tomatoes and toss them into the bowl alongside the torn mozzarella pieces. These will add a burst of flavor and creamy texture to your salad!
3. Include Optional Toppings:
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, add now the sliced pepperoni or salami and the thinly sliced red onion. These toppings give a lovely pizza-like flavor that complements the fresh ingredients.
4. Sprinkle on the Crunch:
Now it’s time to add a little crunch! Sprinkle the salad with toasted pine nuts or chopped pistachios, along with your fresh herbs. These not only add texture but also enhance the overall flavor.
5. Mix the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder (or minced garlic), honey (if you’re using it), and a touch of salt and pepper. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing is emulsified. Tasting it beforehand is always a good idea, just in case you need to adjust the seasoning.
6. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to crush the greens or cheese during this process!
7. Finish with Parmesan:
Finally, sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the top. This adds a delightful salty kick that ties everything together.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Pizza Night Salad is ready to be served! Enjoy this fresh, flavorful dish as it captures the classic taste of pizza in a healthier way. Perfect for any pizza night or as a light meal on its own!
This salad brings the vibrant colors, creaminess of mozzarella, and classic herb and garlic flavors of pizza toppings to a healthy, refreshing dish perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese in This Salad?
Absolutely! If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, you can use feta, goat cheese, or even shredded mozzarella. Each will bring its unique flavor, so choose what you enjoy best!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make it vegan, omit the cheese and use a plant-based alternative. You can also replace the honey with agave syrup or simply skip it altogether. Add extra veggies like cucumbers or avocados for additional flavor.
What Other Veggies Can I Add?
This salad is quite versatile! Feel free to add sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even olives for a Mediterranean twist. Get creative with your favorite vegetables!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The dressing may cause the greens to wilt, so it’s best to toss the salad and dressing just before serving. You can store the dressing separately for fresher greens!
