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Portillo’s Chopped Salad

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Inspired by the popular dish at Portillo’s, this chopped salad is a delicious combination of crisp lettuce, tender pasta, bacon, cheese, and fresh vegetables, all tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet dressing. Perfect as a side dish or light main course, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

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For the Salad:

  • 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 2 cups iceberg lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 cup cooked ditalini pasta, cooled
  • 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese (or blue cheese)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta:
    • Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.
  • Prepare the Dressing:
    • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the white balsamic vinegar, olive oil, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  • Assemble the Salad:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, iceberg lettuce, red cabbage, cooked pasta, bacon, grape tomatoes, green onions, Gorgonzola cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
  • Toss with Dressing:
    • Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  • Serve:
    • Serve immediately as a side or main dish. Enjoy!

Notes

  • For added crunch, toss in croutons or sliced almonds.
  • Make it heartier by adding grilled chicken or turkey.
  • The dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.