Portillo’s Chopped Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Portillo’s Chopped Salad is one of those dishes that’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and fully satisfying. The combination of crisp lettuce, fresh vegetables, , and creamy dressing is simply irresistible. It’s the perfect salad to serve at a barbecue, potluck, or family gathering, and it can easily be adapted to suit your preferences. With the addition of pepperoncini peppers and a tangy dressing, this salad has a unique flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 4 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped

• 1 cup iceberg lettuce, chopped

• 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced

• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese

• 1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, chopped

• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (optional, for crunch)

For the dressing:

• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the chopped Romaine and iceberg lettuce, halved grape tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion.

2. Add the toppings: Add the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled blue cheese,,pepperoncini peppers, and sunflower seeds (if using). Toss gently to combine., pepperoncini peppers, and sunfl

3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well combined and smooth.

4. Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the chopped salad and toss well to coat all the ingredients evenly.

5. Serve: Serve the salad immediately, or refrigerate it for about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes around 15-20 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy salad that’s perfect for a weeknight meal, a party, or a picnic.

Variations

• Add protein: For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak to make it a full meal.

• Swap the cheeses: If you prefer a different cheese, try using mozzarella, feta, or Parmesan in place of the cheddar and blue cheese.

• Spicy kick: If you like spice, add some jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the dressing or directly into the salad.

• Nuts and seeds: For added crunch, try swapping the sunflower seeds for toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds.

Storage/reheating

Portillo’s Chopped Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you have leftover dressing, store it separately in a jar and toss it with the salad just before serving. The salad may lose some of its crispness after sitting, but it will still be delicious.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Yes! You can substitute the Romaine and iceberg lettuce with other leafy greens like spinach, mixed greens, or arugula. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

You can prep all the salad ingredients ahead of time (except for the dressing) and store them in separate containers in the fridge. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can swap out the blue cheese or cheddar for your favorite cheeses. Goat cheese, mozzarella, or even Parmesan would be great alternatives.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, simply omit and cheese, and swap out the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar in the dressing. Add more veggies, like avocado or roasted chickpeas, for extra protein.

Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! You can add any of your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, olives, or avocado to make it more colorful and flavorful.

How do I make this salad spicy?

To add some heat, add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the salad. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, burgers, or as a side dish to any BBQ or picnic meal. It’s also a great addition to a buffet-style spread.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the dressing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just shake it well before using.

Can I use a different type of vinegar in the dressing?

Yes! While red wine vinegar is ideal, you can substitute it with balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or white wine vinegar for different flavors.

Conclusion

Portillo’s Chopped Salad is a flavorful, satisfying, and versatile salad that’s perfect for any occasion. With its mix of fresh vegetables, tangy dressing, and savory toppings  and cheese, it’s sure to be a hit at your next meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main, this salad is an easy and delicious way to bring a taste of Portillo’s into your home. Enjoy the crunch, the flavor, and the freshness of this classic salad!

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