This Italian Salad with Chicken, Spinach, Artichokes, Salami, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Red Onions is a vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings together a variety of textures and tastes. The freshness of spinach is complemented by savory chicken, tangy artichokes, and the richness of salami and sun-dried tomatoes. Drizzled with zesty Italian dressing, this salad makes a perfect lunch or a light dinner, and it’s ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked chicken breast, sliced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 oz salami, sliced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- Italian dressing, to taste
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, spinach, artichoke hearts, salami, sun-dried tomatoes, and red onion.
- Drizzle Italian dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Add Cheese: For a richer salad, add crumbled feta, shredded Parmesan, or fresh mozzarella balls.
- Swap the Meat: Instead of salami, use prosciutto or grilled turkey slices for a lighter version.
- Make it Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices for a bit of heat.
- Use a Different Dressing: While Italian dressing is classic, try balsamic vinaigrette or a lemon olive oil dressing for a different flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Be sure to keep the dressing separate to avoid wilting the spinach.
- Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.
10 FAQs
- Can I use grilled chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, grilled chicken works wonderfully in this salad, adding a smoky flavor. - Can I prepare the salad in advance?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time but only toss them with the dressing right before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting. - Can I add more vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! You can add cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, olives, or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor. - Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh artichokes can be used, but they require more preparation time. Be sure to steam or roast them before adding to the salad. - What if I don’t like salami?
You can substitute salami with other Italian deli meats like pepperoni, ham, or turkey. - Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and salami and add some chickpeas or tofu for protein. - Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. - How do I make this salad healthier?
Use a low-fat or homemade Italian dressing to reduce the calorie content, or skip the salami for a lighter version. - Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this salad as it may affect the texture of the vegetables, especially the spinach. - How can I make the dressing at home?
To make homemade Italian dressing, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Conclusion
This Italian Salad with Chicken, Spinach, Artichokes, Salami, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Red Onions is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that offers a refreshing combination of savory, tangy, and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a light meal, a side dish, or a healthy lunch option, this salad is sure to satisfy. With its simple preparation and endless variation possibilities, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand. Enjoy!