Dave and Buster’s Muffaletta Salad

This cold pasta salad is a twist on the big round New Orleans muffaletta sandwiches, which contain Italian meats and cheeses.

Dave and Buster’s Muffaletta Salad is a flavorful and satisfying salad inspired by the classic New Orleans sandwich. This salad features a combination of delicious ingredients that come together to create a harmonious and vibrant dish.

The salad starts with a base of mixed greens, which provide a fresh and crisp foundation. It is then topped with a medley of ingredients, including sliced pepperoni, salami, ham, and turkey. These cured meats add a savory and robust flavor to the salad.

To enhance the taste, the salad incorporates sliced celery, chopped green onions, and roasted red peppers. These ingredients add a refreshing crunch and a touch of sweetness. The combination of flavors and textures creates a well-balanced and satisfying salad experience.

To bring it all together, the salad is dressed with Italian dressing, which adds tanginess and ties all the ingredients together. The final touch includes diced Roma tomatoes, Italian cheese blend, and shredded Asiago cheese, adding a delightful burst of freshness and creaminess.

Dave and Buster’s Muffaletta Salad is a delightful twist on the traditional sandwich, offering a lighter and refreshing option. It is perfect for those looking for a satisfying and flavorful salad that pays homage to the iconic flavors of New Orleans.

SERVES: 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 24 slices pepperoni
• 2 ounces sliced salami
• 4 ounces sliced ham
• 4 ounces sliced turkey
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 4 tablespoons chopped green onion
• 1 cup roasted red peppers
• ¼ cup sliced black olives
• ½ cup chopped green salad olives
• 1¼ pounds spiral pasta
• 3 tablespoons Italian dressing
• 1½ cups assorted lettuce
• ¼ cup julienned spinach leaves
• 1 cup diced Roma tomatoes
• 1 cup Italian cheese blend
• ¼ cup shredded Asiago cheese

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cut the pepperoni, salami, ham, and turkey into thin julienne strips. Place the meats in a large salad bowl.
2. Add the celery, green onions, and roasted red peppers to the bowl.
3. Chop and add both types of olives to the bowl.
4. Cook the spiral pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the salad bowl.
6. Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta and toss everything together gently.
7. Place the assorted lettuce and julienned spinach leaves on a cold serving platter, leaving a space in the middle for the pasta salad.
8. Pile the pasta salad mixture high in the center of the platter.
9. Top the salad with diced Roma tomatoes, Italian cheese blend, and shredded Asiago cheese.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Serve it as a light lunch: Enjoy the Muffaletta Salad as a complete meal on its own. It offers a satisfying combination of proteins, vegetables, and flavors, making it a fulfilling lunch option.
• Pair it with grilled meats: Serve the Muffaletta Salad as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or seafood. The vibrant flavors of the salad will complement the smoky and grilled flavors of the meats, creating a well-rounded and delicious meal.
• Accompany it with crusty bread: Serve the Muffaletta Salad alongside a slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette. The bread can be used to create small sandwiches by layering the salad ingredients between slices, mimicking the traditional Muffaletta sandwich.
• Customize with additional toppings: Feel free to customize the salad to suit your taste preferences. You can add additional ingredients such as sliced black olives, artichoke hearts, or roasted garlic for extra flavor and texture.
• Serve as a potluck or party dish: If you’re hosting a gathering or potluck, the Muffaletta Salad can be a crowd-pleasing option. It can be prepared in advance and easily transported, allowing guests to enjoy a refreshing and flavorful salad.