Pizza Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pizza Salad is perfect when you’re craving pizza flavors but want something lighter or low-carb. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly versatile, and can be made ahead for meal prep or gatherings. You get the bold taste of pizza—cheese, meats, veggies, and zesty sauce—delivered in a fresh and crunchy way. Plus, it’s easy to make keto- or gluten-free by adjusting a few ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Romaine or iceberg lettuce (chopped)

• Cherry tomatoes (halved)

• Sliced pepperoni or turkey pepperoni

• Mozzarella cheese (cubed or mini balls)

• Black olives (sliced)

• Red onion (thinly sliced)

• Green bell pepper (optional)

• Croutons or toasted pizza crust pieces (optional)

• Grated parmesan cheese

• Italian dressing or balsamic vinaigrette

• Dried oregano or Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Wash and chop the lettuce, then place it in a large salad bowl.

2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced pepperoni, mozzarella, olives, red onion, and green bell pepper (if using).

3. Sprinkle in grated parmesan and a dash of dried oregano or Italian seasoning.

4. Add croutons or toasted pizza crust bits if desired.

5. Drizzle with Italian dressing or balsamic vinaigrette.

6. Toss everything together until well combined and coated.

7. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.

8. Serve immediately or chill for up to 30 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit the pepperoni and add mushrooms, artichokes, or roasted red peppers.

• Low-Carb/Keto: Skip the croutons and use a sugar-free dressing.

• Spicy: Add banana peppers or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.

• Meat-Lovers Version: Include sausage crumbles, cooked bacon, or ham.

• Dressing Options: Try Caesar, ranch, or a homemade pizza-inspired tomato vinaigrette.

storage/reheating

Pizza Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored (without dressing) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If already dressed, try to consume within 1 day to avoid sogginess. Do not freeze this salad.

FAQs

What makes this salad taste like pizza?

The combination of pepperoni, cheese, olives, tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and a tangy dressing gives the classic pizza flavor profile.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the ingredients and add the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.

What type of cheese is best?

Mozzarella is the classic choice, but you can use provolone or a pizza cheese blend.

Can I use leftover pizza for this?

Yes, chop up leftover pizza and add it to your salad for a fun and flavorful twist.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

It can be, especially if you store the dressing separately and add it before eating.

How do I keep the lettuce crisp?

Use fresh, dry lettuce and add the dressing right before serving.

What dressing works best?

Italian dressing is traditional, but Caesar, ranch, or even balsamic vinaigrette work well.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, use plant-based cheese and vegan pepperoni or mushrooms.

What other toppings can I add?

Try adding corn, cucumber, jalapeños, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

Can I serve this as a main dish?

Absolutely! It’s hearty enough for a meal, especially with added protein or crust bits.

Conclusion

Pizza Salad is a fun and delicious way to enjoy all your favorite pizza flavors in a lighter, fresher form. Perfect for a quick lunch, a party side, or a satisfying dinner, this salad is endlessly adaptable and bursting with flavor. Whether you keep it simple or load it up with toppings, it’s a pizza party in every bite.

Pizza Salad

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Pizza Salad is a fresh, low-carb twist on classic pizza, featuring all the toppings you love—like pepperoni, mozzarella, and olives—tossed with crisp greens and zesty dressing.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

4 cups romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or turkey pepperoni

1 cup mozzarella cheese (cubed or mini balls)

1/3 cup black olives, sliced

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped (optional)

1/2 cup croutons or toasted pizza crust pieces (optional)

1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

1/4 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1/3 cup Italian dressing or balsamic vinaigrette

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Instructions

1. Wash and chop the lettuce, then place it in a large salad bowl.
2. Add cherry tomatoes, pepperoni, mozzarella, olives, red onion, and green bell pepper.
3. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and dried oregano.
4. Add croutons or toasted pizza crust if desired.
5. Drizzle with Italian dressing or balsamic vinaigrette.
6. Toss until well combined and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately or chill for up to 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

• For a vegetarian version, omit pepperoni and add roasted veggies.
• Use a sugar-free dressing and skip croutons for a keto option.
• Prep ingredients ahead, but dress just before serving to maintain crunch.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad bowl
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 45mg