Italian Meatball Salad Dressing (Printable Version)
Leftover meatballs shine atop crisp greens, tomatoes, avocado, and mozzarella, finished with a tangy balsamic dressing.
# Ingredients:
→ Salad Base
01 -
130 grams mixed leafy greens (such as escarole, romaine, arugula, and microgreens), chopped
02 -
175 grams mini Persian cucumbers or half a small English cucumber, chopped (reserve a few slices for garnish if desired)
03 -
1 large avocado, peeled and chopped
04 -
100 grams cherry tomatoes, halved
05 -
20 grams shallot, finely chopped
→ Cheese
06 -
100 grams mini mozzarella balls, halved, or chopped fresh mozzarella (reserve a few balls for garnish if preferred, optional)
07 -
Grated Parmesan cheese, to finish
→ Dressing
08 -
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
09 -
2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
10 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Protein
11 -
2 to 4 large Italian meatballs (cooked, leftover), reheated with some Italian tomato sauce
# Steps:
01 -
In a large bowl, gently toss chopped leafy greens with cucumbers, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and shallot. Incorporate halved mozzarella balls.
02 -
In a small bowl, whisk extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar until emulsified.
03 -
Pour dressing over the salad base. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss thoroughly and adjust seasoning as desired.
04 -
Reheat Italian meatballs in tomato sauce either on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, ensuring they are warmed through but not dried out.
05 -
Plate the dressed salad mixture. Arrange the warm meatballs with sauce over the top. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and any reserved mozzarella balls or cucumber slices, if preferred.
# Notes:
01 -
Spinach or dandelion greens can be substituted for variety. Fresh basil or sliced red onion also complement the flavors. Substitute red wine vinegar or lemon juice for balsamic, if desired.
02 -
Green or black olives make flavorful additions. Leftover ground meat such as burger or other stewed meats may be used in place of meatballs.
03 -
For best results, reheat meatballs covered in a pan over low heat to retain moisture.