Parmesan Chopped Salad

If you think a chopped salad is just a pile of lettuce with a little dressing, this Parmesan Chopped Salad is about to change your mind.

This is the kind of salad that feels intentional. Every ingredient is chopped to bite-size perfection so you get crisp romaine, juicy tomatoes, cool cucumber, sharp red onion, sweet bell pepper, fresh parsley, and salty Parmesan in every forkful. The simple red wine vinaigrette pulls everything together with tangy brightness and just enough richness from olive oil.

It is vibrant, satisfying, and surprisingly filling. Whether you are looking for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a base to build a complete meal around, this salad delivers texture, balance, and bold flavor in just 25 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Chopped Salad

• Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish
• Crisp, fresh vegetables in every single bite
• Simple homemade vinaigrette with pantry ingredients
• Naturally vegetarian and easy to customize
• Perfect as a side dish or protein-packed main base
• Balanced flavors: savory, tangy, fresh, and slightly peppery

Ingredients Breakdown

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

For the Salad

• 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 cup chopped cucumber
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• ½ cup chopped red onion
• ½ cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

For the Vinaigrette

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Each ingredient plays a specific role. Romaine provides structure and crunch. Cucumber adds coolness. Tomatoes bring juiciness. Red onion adds sharp contrast. Bell pepper contributes sweetness and texture. Parmesan gives savory depth. Parsley brightens the whole bowl.

The vinaigrette is classic and balanced. Olive oil provides richness. Red wine vinegar adds acidity. Dijon mustard helps emulsify and deepens flavor. Garlic gives subtle punch.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Salad tongs or large spoon for tossing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Thoroughly wash and dry all vegetables.
2. Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
3. Chop the cucumber into small, even pieces.
4. Chop the tomatoes into small chunks.
5. Finely chop the red onion.
6. Chop the bell pepper into small pieces.
7. Finely chop the fresh parsley.

Make sure all ingredients are evenly chopped. The key to a great chopped salad is consistency in size so every bite contains multiple flavors.

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

1. In a small bowl, combine:
   • ¼ cup olive oil
   • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
   • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
   • 1 clove minced garlic
   • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2. Whisk thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar according to your preference.

The mustard helps bind the oil and vinegar together, creating a smooth vinaigrette that evenly coats the salad.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine:
   • 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
   • 1 cup chopped cucumber
   • 1 cup chopped tomatoes
   • ½ cup chopped red onion
   • ½ cup chopped bell pepper
2. Add:
   • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
   • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad.
4. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Serve

Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness. The crisp vegetables and tangy vinaigrette are at their peak right after tossing.

Flavor Profile & Texture

This Parmesan Chopped Salad offers:

• Crisp crunch from romaine and bell pepper
• Juicy bursts from tomatoes
• Cool freshness from cucumber
• Sharp bite from red onion
• Nutty, savory richness from Parmesan
• Bright herbal notes from parsley
• Tangy depth from red wine vinaigrette

Every forkful is balanced and layered.

Nutritional Overview

Per serving (estimated):

• Calories: 250–300 kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 15g

Dietary Notes:

• Vegetarian
• Gluten-free
• Contains dairy

The olive oil provides heart-healthy fats, while the vegetables contribute fiber and antioxidants.

Cooking Timeline at a Glance

Stage	Time
Prep Time	20 minutes
Assembly	5 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes
Difficulty	Easy

Tips & Variations

Make It Vegan

Omit Parmesan or use a plant-based Parmesan alternative.

Add Protein

Turn this into a complete meal by adding:

• Grilled chicken
• Shrimp
• Chickpeas
• Sliced steak

Lower the Onion Sharpness

Soak chopped red onion in cold water for 10 minutes before adding to mellow its bite.

Add Extra Crunch

Toss in toasted nuts or seeds for texture contrast.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Chop vegetables up to 24 hours ahead and store separately in airtight containers.
• Keep vinaigrette stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Toss just before serving to prevent sogginess.

If prepping for meal prep, store dressing separately and assemble portions as needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different lettuce?

Yes. Iceberg or butter lettuce can work, but romaine holds dressing best and maintains crunch.

How long does it stay fresh?

Best eaten immediately, but can be stored dressed for up to 1 day in the refrigerator.

Can I use bottled dressing?

You can, but the homemade vinaigrette gives the best flavor and freshness.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Simply double all ingredients proportionally.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side to pasta dishes.
• Pair with grilled meats.
• Use as a base for grain bowls.
• Add to wraps or pita pockets.

Ingredient Spotlight

Parmesan Cheese

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated varieties may contain anti-caking agents that slightly dull flavor. Store Parmesan tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.

Romaine Lettuce

Choose heads that are crisp and vibrant green. Avoid wilted or brown leaves. Store wrapped in paper towels inside a produce bag to absorb moisture.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Dry lettuce thoroughly to prevent watery dressing.
• Chop ingredients evenly for balanced bites.
• Whisk vinaigrette vigorously to fully emulsify.
• Add dressing gradually if you prefer a lighter coating.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day once dressed.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended due to the fresh vegetables and vinaigrette.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	250–300 kcal
Protein	15 g
Carbohydrates	15 g
Fat	15 g
Fiber	Approx. 3–4 g

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian, gluten-free, contains dairy.

Expanded Conclusion

This Parmesan Chopped Salad proves that simple ingredients, when thoughtfully prepared, can create something truly satisfying. It is crisp, colorful, savory, and balanced in every bite.

Whether you serve it as a refreshing side or transform it into a hearty meal with added protein, it delivers consistent flavor and texture without complicated techniques. It is the kind of dependable recipe that fits into busy weeknights, casual lunches, and dinner parties alike.

Try it once, and it may become your go-to chopped salad recipe whenever you crave something fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor.

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