If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful salad inspired by Ina Garten, the Cape Cod Chopped Salad is a fantastic choice. It’s simple to prepare, packed with crisp vegetables, and offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Here’s a friendly, easy guide on making this delicious salad just like Ina Garten does.
First, gather your ingredients. You’ll want fresh lettuce varieties, such as romaine or Bibb, combined with crunchy celery, sweet scallions, juicy tomatoes, and a handful of sweet corn. Don’t forget to include some hearty mozzarella or feta cheese for creaminess, and of course, a few slices of salty bacon to bring it all together.
Start by washing and chopping your vegetables into bite-sized pieces. The key to a good chopped salad is uniform pieces that make every forkful balanced. Toss the lettuce, celery, scallions, tomatoes, and corn in a large bowl. Add the cheese and crumbled cooked bacon last to keep their textures distinct.
For the dressing, Ina Garten’s style is typically a simple, tangy vinaigrette. Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, a bit of Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until everything blends smoothly. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently until all the ingredients are lightly coated but not soggy.
This salad works beautifully as a main dish for a light lunch or a side for grilled chicken or seafood. You can prepare the veggies ahead of time and store them chilled, assembling everything when you’re ready to serve. This makes it great for both weeknight meals and entertaining guests.
Feel free to play around with the recipe to match your taste. Swap the bacon for smoked almonds or add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten the flavors. The beauty of this Cape Cod chopped salad is its versatility and freshness — a true Ina Garten classic that’s easy to enjoy all year round.
