Antipasto Salad with Basil Dressing

🥗🍅🍽️ Antipasto Salad with Basil Dressing 🌿🧀

What is it?
Antipasto salad is a vibrant and flavorful Italian salad that combines a variety of ingredients typically found in antipasto platters. It’s a delightful mix of fresh vegetables, cured meats, cheeses, and olives, all brought together with a delicious basil dressing. This salad is a great appetizer or a light meal on its own.

History:
Antipasto, which means “before the meal” in Italian, traditionally consists of small bites of various foods to stimulate the appetite before the main course. Antipasto salads have evolved over time, incorporating a wide range of ingredients, reflecting regional variations in Italy and personal preferences.

Components:

• Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onions, and artichoke hearts are commonly used.
• Cured Meats: Salami, pepperoni, and prosciutto add a savory and salty element.
• Cheeses: Mozzarella or provolone cheese provide creaminess.
• Olives: A mix of green and black olives for a briny kick.
• Fresh Herbs: Basil is the star of the dressing.
• Basil Dressing: Made with fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, vinegar, and seasonings.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onions. Drain and quarter the artichoke hearts if using canned ones.
2. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the vegetables, cured meats, cheeses, and olives. Toss gently to mix everything evenly.
3. Make the Basil Dressing: In a food processor or blender, blend fresh basil leaves, garlic, olive oil, vinegar (balsamic or red wine vinegar works well), salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Dress the Salad: Pour the basil dressing over the salad and toss to coat all the ingredients with the dressing.
5. Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve: When ready to serve, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.

Time Needed:

• Preparation Time: 20-25 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes (or longer for enhanced flavor)

This Antipasto Salad with Basil Dressing is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually appealing dish. Enjoy its combination of textures and flavors that make it a delightful addition to any meal or a standalone treat. Buon appetito! 🇮🇹🥗🌿

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Antipasto Salad with Basil Dressing:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 350-400 calories
• Total Fat: 28-32 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 10-12 grams
• Cholesterol: 40-50 milligrams
• Sodium: 800-1000 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 10-12 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 2-4 grams
  • Sugars: 3-4 grams
• Protein: 15-18 grams
• Vitamin C: 40-50% of daily recommended intake
• Calcium: 15-20% of daily recommended intake
• Iron: 8-10% of daily recommended intake

Health Information:

1. Rich in Protein: This salad contains a good amount of protein, primarily from the cured meats and cheese. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair.

2. Healthy Fats: While the salad does contain fats, they come primarily from olive oil, which is a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. These fats can be beneficial for cardiovascular health.

3. Low in Carbohydrates: Antipasto salad is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb or keto diets.

4. Vitamins and Minerals: The salad is rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and calcium, which is crucial for bone health. It also provides iron, albeit in smaller amounts.

5. Moderate Sodium: The sodium content can vary depending on the brands of cured meats, cheeses, and olives used. Be mindful of your sodium intake, especially if you have high blood pressure or are on a low-sodium diet.

6. Fiber from Vegetables: The salad contains dietary fiber from the fresh vegetables, which can aid in digestion and help you feel full.

7. Antioxidants: The basil dressing, made from fresh basil, provides antioxidants that may have various health benefits, including reducing inflammation.

8. Portion Control: While this salad can be nutritious, it’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.

Remember that specific nutrition values can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. If you have specific dietary concerns or health conditions, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.