– Iceberg Lettuce: The crisp, refreshing base that gives this salad its signature crunch. Chill it before serving for maximum freshness. – Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes work best for their sweet flavor and juicy pop. Halve them for even bites. – Ham: Thinly sliced baked ham adds a savory, salty bite. Use a high-quality deli ham for the best flavor. – Swiss Cheese: A mild, nutty cheese that pairs perfectly with the dressing. Shred or thinly slice for an even distribution.
– Green Spanish Olives: Briny and tangy, these bring a unique Cuban-inspired flavor. Look for pimento-stuffed olives for a traditional touch. – Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami finish when freshly grated over the top. – Garlic-Oregano Wine Vinaigrette: A zesty dressing made with olive oil, white wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, and a hint of Worcestershire sauce. It ties all of the flavors together beautifully. – Fresh Cracked Black Pepper: Elevates the dish with just the right amount of spice and boldness.
– Prep Ahead: To save time, prep the salad ingredients and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, just toss everything together and drizzle with the dressing. – Let it Rest: For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes after tossing to allow the dressing to soak into the ingredients. – Customize the Dressing: If you prefer a tangier vinaigrette, add a bit more white wine vinegar or an extra squeeze of lemon juice. For a milder version, use less garlic or a touch of honey to balance the flavors.
– Make it a Meal: To turn this salad into a main dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or your favorite protein on top. – Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the best flavor, grate your own Parmesan cheese right before serving. Pre-grated cheese can be more powdery and less flavorful. – Storage: The salad is best served immediately, but if you need to store leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate. This will help maintain the crispness of the lettuce.