The Best Antipasti Salad For Summer
Bring the Taste of Italy to Your Table
When it comes to Italian dining, few things capture the spirit of la dolce vita quite like a vibrant, thoughtfully curated antipasti platter. But when you combine those rich, regional deli flavours with crisp, fresh salad leaves and vibrant summer produce, you transform classic antipasti into an extraordinary main course or starter: the ultimate Antipasti Salad.
Whether you are hosting an alfresco lunch, looking for a sophisticated dinner party starter, or simply craving an authentic taste of Italy at home, this Carluccio's recipe brings together the finest pantry staples from our online deli alongside classic fresh ingredients.
What Makes the Perfect Italian Antipasti Salad?
The secret to a memorable Italian salad lies in contrast. You want a harmonious balance of texture and taste: crisp, pepperiness from fresh greens paired with the deep, rich, sun-drenched flavours of traditional Italian preserves.
To craft the perfect bowl, we start with three iconic ingredients straight from our deli, each selected for its exceptional quality and regional authenticity.
1. Pitted Taggiasca Olives
Hailing from Liguria, Taggiasca Olives are world-renowned for their small size, sweet nuttiness, and delicate, non-bitter finish. Cured to perfection and pitted for ease, these olive gems add a subtle richness that elevates every single bite without overpowering the lighter greens.
2. Bio Orto Organic Artichoke Hearts in Oil
Tender, meaty, and brimming with flavour, Bio Orto Organic Artichoke Hearts are a true deli treasure. Preserved in high-quality oil to retain their natural delicate sweetness and velvety texture, they provide a satisfying, luxurious bite that ties the salad together.
3. Bio Orto Organic Sundried Tomatoes
Intensely savoury with a gentle natural sweetness, Bio Orto Organic Sundried Tomatoes offer concentrated bursts of Mediterranean sunshine. Their chewy texture and bold intensity bring incredible depth to the fresh salad leaves.
Assembling Your Antipasti Salad
Creating this masterpiece at home takes just minutes, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine through.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
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From Carluccio's Deli:
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Fresh Salad Ingredients:
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Fresh baby rocket or mixed Italian salad leaves (such as radicchio and wild rocket for a hint of bitterness)
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Ripe cherry tomatoes, halved
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Creamy fresh mozzarella or bocconcini (or shaved Parmigiano Reggiano)
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A few fresh basil leaves, gently torn
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A pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
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Step-by-Step Method
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Prepare the Greens: Wash and dry your salad leaves thoroughly. Scatter them generously across a large, wide serving platter to create a lush, fresh base.
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Layer the Deli Treasures: Drain the Bio Orto Organic Artichoke Hearts and Sundried Tomatoes slightly, then scatter them evenly over the leaves alongside the Pitted Taggiasca Olives.
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Add Freshness: Nestled between the preserves, add your halved fresh cherry tomatoes and torn pieces of fresh mozzarella or shaved cheese.
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Dress Simply: The secret to dressing an authentic Italian salad is simplicity. Drizzle generously with Carluccio’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil to coat the leaves, followed by a splash of rich, velvety Carluccio’s Balsamic Vinegar for that crucial touch of acidity and sweetness.
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Finish and Serve: Season with a touch of sea salt, fresh black pepper, and torn basil leaves. Serve immediately alongside crusty Italian bread to mop up the delicious oils.
Bring Italy Home
Creating a restaurant-quality antipasti salad at home comes down to using genuine, high-quality Italian ingredients. Explore our online deli today to discover our complete collection of extra virgin olive oils, aged balsamic vinegars, and artisanal preserves. Buon appetito!
