Updated Chef Salad

Serves 4-6

To learn more, read:
Salad for Dinner
by Abigail Johnson Dodge
from Fine Cooking
Issue 51
Last Edit Date: 3/6/2013 4:32:35 PM

This chef’s salad is a fresh approach to the one I remember from years ago. I like it best with the Lemon Poppyseed Dressing.

more about:

1/4 lb. thinly sliced roasted turkey breast
1/4 lb. thinly sliced smoked ham, such as Black Forest
1/4 lb. thinly sliced dry sausage, such as spicy soppressata or peppered cervelat
10 cups lightly packed mixed greens (I like to-use a mesclun mix)
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or quartered-if large)
6 oz. small fresh mozzarella balls (called-ciliegini or bocconcini) or whole fresh mozzarella, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 roasted red pepper, peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced
12 niçoise or other good-quality black olives,-pitted
2 hard-cooked eggs, peeled and quartered lengthwise
1 recipe Garlic Croutons (optional)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/3 cup minced fresh herbs (I like a mix of parsley, mint, and chives)
1 cup Lemon Poppyseed Dressing, Balsamic Vinaigrette, or Creamy Black Pepper Dressing

Stack the turkey slices and cut them into 3/4-inch strips; repeat with the ham and the dry sausage. Toss to combine thoroughly. Put the salad greens in a large, shallow bowl. Arrange the tomatoes, mozzarella, roasted red pepper, olives, egg wedges, and croutons (if using) over the greens. Scatter the meats on top. Sprinkle the salad with salt and a few generous grinds of pepper. Drizzle with 1/2 cup of the dressing and sprinkle with the herbs. At the table, toss and serve the salad and pass with the remaining dressing.

Variations

Instead of mozzarella, try a mild hard cheese like Muenster. Instead of tomatoes, try cantaloupe chunks; they’re surprisingly refreshing.

nutrition information (per serving):
Size : based on six servings; Calories (kcal): 270; Fat (g): 16; Fat Calories (kcal): 140; Saturated Fat (g): 6; Protein (g): 24; Monounsaturated Fat (g): 7; Carbohydrates (g): 7; Polyunsaturated Fat (g): 2; Sodium (mg): 800; Cholesterol (mg): 130; Fiber (g): 2;