Description
To understand why this salad is such an enduring favorite, it helps to examine the thoughtful layers that build its texture and flavor. This dish is built upon a dual lettuce foundation, featuring a carefully measured blend of sturdy chopped romaine and exceptionally crisp iceberg lettuce. This specific mixture provides a structural crunch that holds up beautifully against a heavy, flavorful dressing without instantly turning soggy. Tucked into the vibrant green leaves are colorful accents of halved sweet cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, black olives, and whole pickled pepperoncini peppers.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 4 cups iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup pepperoncini peppers
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Halal Croutons
- 3 cups day-old halal French or Italian bread, cut into cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Creamy Italian Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin, if needed)
Instructions
1. Make the Halal Croutons
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss the bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- Let cool completely.
2. Prepare the Dressing
- In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, vinegar, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, sugar, garlic powder, pepper, and water until smooth.
- Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
3. Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine the romaine and iceberg lettuce.
- Add the cherry tomatoes, black olives, red onion, and pepperoncini.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Top with the homemade halal croutons.
- Toss with the creamy Italian dressing just before serving.
Notes
Store the salad, dressing, and croutons separately in airtight containers. The dressing will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, while the croutons stay crisp for up to a week at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290 kcal
Keywords: italian house salad with homemade croutons, copycat olive garden salad recipe, fresh restaurant style salad