Brussels & Salami Italian Salad: A Quick and Delicious Delight

Name: Brussels & Salami Italian Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 12 oz Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (Fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch.); 4 oz salami, sliced into strips (A bit of indulgence for flavor.); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (Adds a beautiful pop of color.); ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced (Provides a zesty kick.); ¼ cup pecorino romano cheese, shaved (Parmesan can be used as a substitute.); ¼ cup olive oil (Essential for the dressing.); 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (Gives the dressing a tangy flavor.); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish (Optional but recommended.)

Are you feeling the pressure of a busy week? Maybe dinner is approaching, and you’re facing that all-too-familiar dilemma: “What on earth can I whip up that’s not just quick but also absolutely delicious?” Say hello to Brussels & Salami Italian Salad! This recipe not only saves you from the dinner rut but also brings a burst of flavor that’s sure to impress. It’s perfect for those nights when you’re craving something light yet satisfying—let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Brussels & Salami Italian Salad

This salad is your new best friend! It’s not only quick to prepare (hello, 20 minutes!), but it’s also outrageously flavorful with a mix of crunchy Brussels sprouts and savory salami. Plus, who doesn’t love a good Italian twist on a salad? It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both intimate family dinners and larger gatherings. So grab your apron—no, not the one with spaghetti sauce stains from last week’s dinner—and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we start tossing things together, here’s what you’ll need for this delightful salad.

12 oz Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch!)
4 oz salami, sliced into strips (because life is too short not to have a little indulgence!)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (these little gems add a beautiful pop)
½ cup red onion, thinly sliced (for that zesty kick)
¼ cup pecorino romano cheese, shaved (or you can use parmesan if you prefer)
¼ cup olive oil (the liquid gold of the kitchen)
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (it’s the cherry on top!)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional but recommended; it’s like a fashionable accessory!)

Let’s Get Cooking!

Ready? Here we go!

Prep the Brussels Sprouts: Start with those lovely Brussels sprouts. Give them a good rinse, trim off the ends, and slice them in half. If you hear a little crunch, you’re doing it right!
Cook Them Up: In a large pot of boiling water, cook the Brussels sprouts for about 5 minutes until they’re tender but still have a bit of crunch—nobody wants mushy sprouts, am I right? Drain them well and set aside.
Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. It should be a little tangy but still make you want to drizzle it on everything.
Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts, salami, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and half of the pecorino romano cheese. Drizzle the dressing over this beautiful medley and toss gently until everything is coated.
Plate and Garnish: Time to shine! Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. If you’re feeling fancy, add a few basil leaves for that Instagram-worthy touch!
Serve It Up: Your Brussels & Salami Italian Salad is ready to be devoured! Pair it with some crusty bread or grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips To Make Life Easier

Tip 1: Make it ahead! This salad holds up well in the fridge, so feel free to prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain that crispness.
Tip 2: Feel free to swap out the salami for another protein like grilled chicken or even some chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Tip 3: If you’ve got picky eaters at home, consider adding a few more veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers to customize it to their tastes.

A Personal Touch

This salad became a staple in my home after my kids declared it “the best salad ever.” I mean, who can argue with a verdict like that? It’s not only a hit with the family but also impresses guests at gatherings. Plus, leftovers (if there are any) make for an excellent next-day lunch!

FAQs About Brussels & Salami Italian Salad

Can I substitute salami in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use turkey salami or even prosciutto for a different flavor profile.

How can I store leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just hold off on the dressing until you’re ready to munch!

What can I serve with this salad?
Grilled chicken, garlic bread, or a hearty soup could complement this salad beautifully.

So there you have it—a simple yet spectacular Brussels & Salami Italian Salad that’s both delightful to the palate and easy on your schedule. Give this dish a try, and I promise, it will become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. From quick weeknight dinners to special occasions, it checks all the boxes and leaves everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking, my friends!

Want more delicious ideas?

Don’t forget to check out my Wholesome Family Meals and Decadent Desserts for more inspiration on how to create amazing meals!

Meta Description

Brussels & Salami Italian Salad is the perfect recipe for a busy day. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish will become your go-to meal. Try it today!