A Big Italian Salad that is more veggie than salad. Full of tomatoes, cucumbers, fennel, olives and artichoke hearts, dressed with a homemade Basil Vinaigrette.
Salad Tip! I know we are all used to serving salad in a bowl. BUT try serving this salad on a large platter. That way all the yummy veggies, croutons and cheese don't end up at the bottom of the bowl. Also dress the lettuce and the veggies separate, that way everything gets seasoned.
In a large bowl toss the romaine with about ¼ cup of the Basil Vinaigrette. Then lay on a large serving platter.
1 head of romaine or green leaf lettuce
Add all the veggies to the now empty bowl and toss with about ⅓ cup of dressing. Reserve the remaining dressing and serve on the side.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, 1 cup pitted black olives, 1 small raw fennel bulb, 14 oz can quartered artichoke hearts in brine, ½ English cucumber, ½ red onion
Pour the veggies over the salad on the platter.
Add the croutons and lots of shaved parmesan.
a lot of shaved parmesan cheese, Seasoned Croutons
Serve right away!
Video
Notes
Red Onion- sometimes onion can be a really strong flavor that can overpower a dish. By rinsing the sliced red onion you will make their flavor just a bit milder.Adding Protein: This Buttermilk Grilled Chicken or Marinated Grilled Chicken would be a great addition to this salad!