CPK Italian Chopped Salad

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Introduction

The CPK Italian Chopped Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together an array of colorful vegetables, tangy dressings, and a mix of savory flavors to create a hearty, yet light, meal. Inspired by California Pizza Kitchen’s popular dish, this salad is an explosion of taste, featuring a balance of crisp greens, sweet tomatoes, olives, and perfectly seasoned chicken. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a quick and healthy lunch, or looking for a delicious side dish, this Italian Chopped Salad is sure to impress. With its mix of fresh ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a salad that will leave everyone asking for the recipe.

Perfect for:

• Lunch or Dinner
• Family gatherings
• Potlucks
• Healthy meal prep
• Italian food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why the CPK Italian Chopped Salad will become your new go-to salad recipe:

• Fresh and Flavorful: The crispness of the veggies, the savory cheese, and the zesty dressing create a flavor-packed salad that’s full of vibrant colors and textures.
• Perfectly Balanced: The ingredients are thoughtfully chosen to provide a mix of freshness, crunch, tang, and creaminess. With a mix of proteins and healthy fats, this salad will leave you feeling satisfied.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and a couple of easy steps, you’ll have this delicious salad ready in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap or add ingredients according to your preferences—whether it’s adding more protein, changing up the cheese, or adding more veggies.
• Healthy and Light: This salad is nutrient-dense with fresh vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats. It’s also a great choice for anyone following a halal diet, as it’s free from pork, bacon, wine, and alcohol.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious CPK Italian Chopped Salad:

For the Salad:

• 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless (halal chicken)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling the chicken)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 6 cups mixed greens (such as Romaine, Arugula, and Iceberg Lettuce)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup red onions, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup bell pepper, diced (red or yellow for added color)
• ¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed or shredded
• ¼ cup roasted red peppers, diced
• ½ cup pepperoncini, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional for garnish)

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (use halal-certified vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Halal Chicken: The chicken breasts are a lean protein source, providing the salad with essential nutrients. Make sure to use halal-certified chicken to maintain the dish’s dietary integrity.
• Olives and Pepperoncini: These ingredients bring in briny, tangy flavors that elevate the overall taste of the salad and provide a Mediterranean-inspired flair.
• Cheese: The mozzarella adds a creamy and slightly sweet element, while also enhancing the texture of the salad.
• Mixed Greens: A variety of greens ensures the salad is loaded with fiber and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice.
• Homemade Dressing: The dressing is simple, quick to make, and packed with flavors from olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and oregano. It’s a perfect complement to the freshness of the vegetables.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the perfect CPK Italian Chopped Salad:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Season the Chicken: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts and season both sides with salt and pepper.
• Grill or Cook: Grill or cook the chicken on a skillet over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Rest and Slice: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized cubes.

2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:

• Chop the Vegetables: While the chicken is cooking, chop all the vegetables, including lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, roasted red peppers, and olives.
• Add Cheese: Cube or shred the mozzarella cheese and set it aside.
• Slice the Pepperoncini: Slice the pepperoncini peppers to add a tangy kick to the salad.

3. Make the Dressing:

• Whisk Together: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.

4. Assemble the Salad:

• Toss the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onions, Kalamata olives, mozzarella cheese, roasted red peppers, and sliced pepperoncini.
• Add the Chicken: Top the salad with the sliced, grilled chicken.

5. Dress the Salad:

• Drizzle the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad, starting with half and adding more if needed. Toss the salad gently to combine all the ingredients and coat them evenly with the dressing.

6. Serve:

• Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle fresh chopped basil on top for an extra burst of flavor.
• Serve Immediately: Serve the salad immediately for the best texture and freshness.

How to Serve CPK Italian Chopped Salad

This vibrant and flavorful salad can be served in a variety of ways:

• As a Main Dish: With the protein from the chicken and the variety of fresh veggies, this salad makes a satisfying and light main dish.
• As a Side Dish: Pair this Italian chopped salad with your favorite pasta, grilled meats, or Mediterranean-inspired dishes for a complete meal.
• As a Meal Prep: Prepare the salad in advance and store the ingredients separately. When you’re ready to eat, toss everything together for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner.
• With a Slice of Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread or a crusty loaf of bread for a hearty Italian-inspired meal.
• As a Party Dish: This salad is perfect for gatherings and potlucks. It’s easy to make in large quantities and is sure to be a hit with guests.

Additional Tips for CPK Italian Chopped Salad

Here are some tips to make your CPK Italian Chopped Salad even better:

• Customize the Chicken: If you’re looking for a flavor twist, marinate the chicken in Italian seasoning or balsamic vinegar before grilling it.
• Add More Protein: For extra protein, you can add grilled shrimp, steak, or even hard-boiled eggs. Just make sure the additional protein is halal-certified.
• Freshness is Key: Use the freshest vegetables possible for the best flavor and texture. You can mix up the veggies based on your preferences, such as adding avocados or swapping red onions for shallots.
• Don’t Overdress: When adding the dressing, start with a little and toss the salad before adding more. It’s easier to add more than to take it away.
• Make Ahead: If you’re making this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the salad from getting soggy.

Recipe Variations of CPK Italian Chopped Salad

Here are some variations of the CPK Italian Chopped Salad you can try to mix things up:

• Mediterranean Chicken Salad: Add feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a lemon-oregano vinaigrette for a Mediterranean twist.
• Vegan Italian Chopped Salad: Omit the chicken and mozzarella, and substitute with vegan cheese and a protein like chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version.
• Grilled Vegetables Salad: Instead of raw vegetables, grill bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant for a smoky flavor and charred texture.
• Caesar-style Salad: Add some Caesar dressing (ensure it’s halal-friendly) and croutons for a Caesar-style version of the salad.
• Caprese Italian Salad: Add fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), tomatoes, and basil leaves for a simple Caprese twist.
• Spicy Italian Salad: Add a chopped jalapeño or red chili flakes to the dressing for an extra spicy kick.
• Shrimp Italian Salad: Swap the chicken for shrimp for a delicious seafood option that pairs perfectly with the fresh vegetables.
• Pasta Salad Version: Add cooked pasta to the salad for a heartier, more filling option.
• Cucumber Dill Salad: Add dill and cucumbers for a refreshing and tangy variation of the Italian chopped salad.
• Pesto Chicken Salad: Marinate the chicken in pesto sauce for an aromatic Italian flavor.
• Balsamic Glazed Salad: Drizzle some balsamic glaze over the finished salad for added richness and flavor.

Freezing and Storage for CPK Italian Chopped Salad

• Freezing: It’s best to avoid freezing the salad as the fresh vegetables and greens do not freeze well and may become soggy when thawed. However, you can freeze the grilled chicken separately if needed.
• Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate from the salad to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Special Equipment for CPK Italian Chopped Salad

Here are some special equipment items you might need to make the CPK Italian Chopped Salad:

• Grill or Skillet: A grill or skillet is needed to cook the chicken breasts. A grill adds a smoky flavor, but a skillet works just as well.
• Salad Spinner: If you’re using fresh lettuce or greens, a salad spinner will help dry the greens thoroughly before adding them to the salad.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for chopping the vegetables and slicing the chicken into even pieces.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple of mixing bowls to toss the salad and make the dressing.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements for the dressing ingredients will ensure a balanced flavor.
• Whisk: A whisk is perfect for emulsifying the dressing, ensuring it’s smooth and well combined.

FAQ Section about CPK Italian Chopped Salad

1. Can I use a different type of chicken? Yes, you can use grilled turkey breast or even rotisserie chicken as a quick and easy alternative. Make sure it’s halal.
2. Can I make this salad without mozzarella? Yes, you can omit the mozzarella if you prefer, or swap it with another type of cheese like feta or Parmesan.
3. How can I make this salad spicier? You can add more pepperoncini, sprinkle red chili flakes on top, or incorporate a chopped jalapeño for extra heat.
4. Can I use a store-bought dressing? Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought Italian dressing. Just ensure it’s halal-certified.
5. Can I prepare this salad in advance? You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time, but wait to toss the salad with the dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep it fresh.

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Conclusion

The CPK Italian Chopped Salad is a perfect combination of freshness, flavor, and texture that will become a favorite in your meal rotation. With its vibrant ingredients and customizable options, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by anyone. Whether you’re looking for a light meal, a side dish, or something to serve at your next gathering, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser. Halal, healthy, and absolutely delicious, the CPK Italian Chopped Salad is guaranteed to make any occasion a little more special. Enjoy!