This fun Pizza Night Salad combines fresh greens, tasty veggies, and all your favorite pizza toppings! It’s a crunchy twist that makes salad exciting and perfect for any pizza lover.
Honestly, who knew salad could remind you of pizza? I love tossing in pepperoni and mozzarella for that classic flavor. It’s the easiest way to sneak some greens in while keeping it delicious! 🍕🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Salad Greens: Romaine, radicchio, and arugula blend well for texture and taste. If you can’t find these, spinach or kale work too—just make sure they’re fresh!
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add bright flavor. If out of season, try using canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a bolder taste.
Green Olives: Their briny flavor is key. If you’re not a fan, consider using black olives or even pickles for a tangy twist.
Pepitas: These seeds add crunch and nutrition. Substitute with sunflower seeds or chopped nuts if needed, but check for allergies!
Cheese: Mozzarella gives a classic pizza flavor, but feel free to use feta or goat cheese in place of mozzarella for a different touch.
How Do I Get My Salad Greens Extra Crisp?
Getting that fresh crunch from your greens makes a big difference! Start by washing them well to remove dirt, then follow these tips:
- Use cold water when washing—this helps keep the greens crisp.
- Spin them in a salad spinner to remove excess water. Too much moisture can make them soggy.
- Store unwashed greens wrapped in a paper towel inside a plastic bag in the fridge until you’re ready to make your salad.
With these simple tips, you’ll have crispy greens that really make this Pizza Night Salad shine!
Pizza Night Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, radicchio, arugula)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or parmesan to taste
- 1 cup parmesan crisps or baked thin cheese crisps (optional)
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (or homemade vinaigrette)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Pizza Night Salad takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare. Just wash, chop, toss, and serve! It’s a quick and healthy addition to your pizza night festivities.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Greens:
Start by washing the mixed salad greens thoroughly in cold water to ensure they are clean and crisp. After washing, dry them well using a salad spinner or by patting them gently with a clean towel. Place the greens in a large serving bowl.
2. Add the Toppings:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced green olives, and pepitas to the bowl with the greens. These ingredients add color, flavor, and crunch!
3. Dress the Salad:
Gently toss the salad with the Italian dressing (or your homemade vinaigrette) until everything is evenly coated. Not too much dressing—just enough to give it a lovely flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
4. Cheese Time:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese over the top of the salad, making it look irresistible and adding that cheesy flavor we all love.
5. Add Some Crunch:
If you’re using them, add the parmesan crisps or baked cheese crisps now for extra texture. They’ll give a delightful crunch to your salad!
6. Spice it Up:
Finish by sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes on top for a bit of heat. Adjust to your taste—more if you like it spicy, or less if you prefer mild flavors.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Pizza Night Salad immediately as a fresh, vibrant side dish. It pairs perfectly with pizza and will surely delight your taste buds!
This salad captures the fresh, savory flavors found in a pizza but in a light, refreshing form with a good mix of textures and a cheesy topping. Enjoy your meal! 🍕🥗
Can I Use Different Salad Greens?
Absolutely! While romaine, radicchio, and arugula provide a great mix, feel free to substitute with whatever greens you prefer or have on hand, such as spinach, kale, or even iceberg lettuce.
What If I Don’t Have Italian Dressing?
No worries! You can easily make a quick homemade vinaigrette with olive oil, vinegar (like red wine or balsamic), a pinch of salt, and some pepper. Just whisk it together and drizzle over the salad!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the greens from wilting.
Can I Add More Toppings?
Definitely! This salad is super versatile. You can add other pizza-inspired toppings like pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of dried oregano for added flavor. Get creative!
