Italian Chopped Salad

Directions

1. 1
   For the lettuce, I like pieces that are manageable bite-wise. I don't want to also need a knife to eat my salad! So I first cut the romaine vertically two or three times, from the root end (don't cut all the way through the root, to keep the head intact) to the tips of the leaves. Then I make cuts crosswise, into 1/2" to 3/4" ribbons. Discard the root end.
2. 2
   Up to a day or two ahead of time, prepare Italian Vinaigrette and store in the refrigerator.
3. 3
   To assemble the salad: In a large bowl (my favorite salad bowl is a large stainless steel one), gently fold together red onion, pepperoncini, black olives, provolone, and salami.
4. 4
   Up to a few hours ahead of time, prep all Italian Chopped Salad ingredients. Store lettuce and sliced tomatoes in their own separate covered containers in the refrigerator. Store red onion, pepperoncini, black olives, provolone, and salami together in a covered container in the refrigerator.
5. 5
   Drizzle about 1/2 cup of the Italian Vinaigrette over these ingredients, and then gently fold again.
6. 6
   When ready to serve, assemble salad as directed in the Instructions above.
7. 7
   Add prepared lettuce and tomatoes, gently folding to incorporate. Taste for seasoning and add kosher salt and/or more of the vinaigrette, if desired.
8. 8
   Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the top and serve immediately.