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Keto Antipasto Salad - Bold Flavor, Low-Carb Favorite

Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Romaine or mixed greens: 4 cups, chopped
  • Cucumber: 1 medium, halved and sliced
  • Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved (optional for strict keto; see notes)
  • Roasted red peppers: 1 cup, sliced (drained)
  • Marinated artichoke hearts: 1 cup, quartered (drained)
  • Kalamata or mixed olives: 3/4 cup, pitted and halved
  • Pepperoncini: 1/2 cup, sliced (seeds removed if you prefer mild)
  • Salami: 4 oz, sliced into strips
  • Prosciutto or pepperoni: 3–4 oz, torn or sliced
  • Mozzarella balls (ciliegine): 6–8 oz, halved
  • Provolone or aged cheddar: 4 oz, cubed
  • Red onion: 1/4 small, thinly sliced
  • Fresh basil: Small handful, torn
  • Extra-virgin olive oil: 1/3 cup
  • Red wine vinegar: 3 tablespoons
  • Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon
  • Garlic: 1 clove, finely minced
  • Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
  • Sea salt and black pepper: To taste
  • Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes and a squeeze of lemon for brightness

Method
 

  1. Prep the base: Add chopped greens to a large bowl. Pat them dry with a towel to avoid a watery salad.
  2. Chop the vegetables: Slice cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, and drain roasted peppers and artichokes well. Extra moisture can dilute the dressing.
  3. Layer the flavor: Add olives, pepperoncini, and red onion over the greens for a punchy, salty base.
  4. Add proteins and cheese: Toss in salami, prosciutto or pepperoni, mozzarella, and provolone. Keep pieces bite-sized for easy eating.
  5. Make the dressing: Whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Add red pepper flakes and a squeeze of lemon if you like a little heat and zing.
  6. Dress and toss: Drizzle about two-thirds of the dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat without crushing softer ingredients. Add more dressing if needed.
  7. Finish with herbs: Scatter torn basil on top for freshness. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or acidity.
  8. Serve: Enjoy immediately, or chill for 15–20 minutes to let flavors mingle.