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Fresh Pizza Salad Recipe with Zesty Balsamic Glaze Easy Homemade Twist

fresh pizza salad - featured image

A vibrant and easy-to-make salad combining fresh greens and classic pizza flavors, finished with a tangy balsamic glaze for a delicious twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, torn into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ cup mini pepperoni slices (optional)
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of cracked black pepper
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: Pour 1 cup balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons honey into a small saucepan. Add ¼ teaspoon garlic powder and a pinch of cracked black pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it reduce until thickened and syrupy, about 10-12 minutes. Set aside to cool.
  2. Prep the Salad Base: Chop 6 cups romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl. Halve 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes and add them along with ½ cup Kalamata olives and ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion. Toss gently to combine.
  3. Add the Pizza Toppings: Tear 8 ounces fresh mozzarella into small chunks and scatter over the salad. Add ½ cup mini pepperoni slices if using, and sprinkle ¼ cup torn fresh basil leaves on top.
  4. Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until emulsified. Pour over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly.
  5. Finish with the Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over the salad right before serving. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed.

Notes

Make the balsamic glaze ahead and refrigerate for up to one week. Add delicate herbs like basil at the last moment to prevent wilting. For a vegetarian version, omit pepperoni or substitute with roasted red peppers or grilled vegetables. To avoid sogginess, store dressing and glaze separately and toss just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: pizza salad, balsamic glaze, fresh salad, easy salad recipe, mozzarella salad, quick dinner, healthy salad, vegetarian option