First things first, let’s prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, white vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, dried oregano, black pepper, and sea salt. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. The dressing should have a beautiful glossy appearance, which indicates that the ingredients have melded together perfectly.
Now that our dressing is ready, set it aside for a moment. It’s important to let the flavors develop while we prepare the salad. Trust me; it makes a difference!
Next, let’s chop our fresh ingredients. Start with the romaine lettuce. Rinse it thoroughly, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. You want it crisp and fresh, so be cautious not to bruise it. The color should remain a vibrant green, indicating its freshness.
Slice the cherry tomatoes in half. As you cut, notice the juicy interior; this sweetness will complement the tangy dressing beautifully. Keep them aside in a large bowl.
Now, thinly slice your red onion. The idea is to have a sharp yet not overpowering flavor in each bite. Add these slices to the bowl along with the tomatoes.
Next, it’s time for the pepperoncinis. Simply add them to the bowl. Their briny flavor adds a delightful contrast that brightens the salad.
Don’t forget about the kalamata olives. Slice them if they’re whole, and add them to the mix. Their deep flavor anchors the salad amidst all the fresh ingredients.
Now, it’s time to add the salami. Cut it into strips, about the same size as the other ingredients. This adds a savory layer to the salad that is simply irresistible.
Finally, sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese on top. You can adjust the amount based on your preference. More cheese means more creaminess!
Once everything is in the bowl, it’s time to drizzle the dressing over the top. Pour just enough to coat everything without drowning it. Toss gently yet thoroughly to combine all the ingredients. You'll know it's ready when the colors are vibrant and everything looks well mixed.
Serve immediately, or if you prefer, let it chill in the refrigerator for a bit. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Enjoy your Classic Italian Salad with your favorite main dish!
