Chopped Salad with Crispy Pepperoni, Arugula & Zesty Vinaigrette

Time for a salad! Salads don’t have to be boring - they can be packed full of flavor while being filling. And, it’s a great way to use up all of the things in your kitchen that you don’t know what to do with. This one hits all of the classic Italian notes - spicy pepperoni, lots of cheese, peppery notes from the arugula and lots of herbs. Make extra, because this one will go fast!

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Ingredients

Handful of Arugula

Shredded Lettuce

Pepperoni

Leftover Bread

Provolone Cheese

Parmesan Cheese

Black Olives

Cucumber

Red Onion

Dressing

1/2 cup oil

1/2 cup vinegar

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

2 teaspoons garlic powder

1teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon oregano

1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese

Pinch of Salt & Pepper

Pinch Red Pepper Flakes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Recipe

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

2. To make the dressing, combine all ingredients into a mason jar and shake until combined.

3. Let chill for at least an hour before using.

4. On a baking sheet lined with foil, place slices of pepperoni on one side. For the croutons, on the other side, rip up a few pieces of bread and place pieces evenly apart. Drizzle a few tablespoons of the dressing over the bread pieces. Use your hands or a spoon to ensure even coverage.

5. Place in oven for about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to watch carefully to avoid burning.

6. As croutons and pepperoni are getting crispy, prepare your vegetables. Thinly slice onion, and place them in a shallow dish with vinegar and pepper to quickly pickle.

7. Slice cucumber, and half olives. You can also dice some banana peppers for some extra crunch.

8. When croutons and pepperoni are crispy, take out of oven and let cool. Once cool, slice pepperoni into strips.

9. In a bowl, combine shredded lettuce and a handful of arugula. Lightly toss with a few tablespoons of the vinaigrette.

10. Start layering your toppings into you bowl, and topped with shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan.

11. Serve with extra vinaigrette. Enjoy!

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