Not Just Another Pizza Salad Recipe

"After way to many 'Pizza Pasta Salads,' or, some type of salad topped on a pizza crust; I really wanted to come up with something different - that tasted like pizza - but was a salad. Something you could serve family style, and that was hearty and a meal; not just a side dish. So, after a few experiments, this is the result. Now, there are couple of steps to this. But just plan ahead - marinate the mozzarella, pre-cook the sausage, and make the dressing ahead of time. Then, you are just left with making the salad and toasting the pizza crust. And, if you like to make your own pizza crust, by all means - I use a premade store bought crust - like 'Boboli' to make this easy on myself. Note: The sausage and pizza crust could easily be made on the grill which would make this a fun salad for a BBQ."

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Cheese ... In a small non-reactive bowl or pan (glass), or my favorite - a ziploc bag; add the dressing, red pepper flakes, and cheese and mix to combine. Now, obviously, if you buy the pre-marinated mozzarella balls; you can skip this. I just found that making your own, they are - so much cheaper and better tasting. Make sure to cover with plastic wrap or close the ziploc bag and marinate 1-24 hours, they won't go bad. Make this ahead so they are ready when you are.

Step 2

Dressing ... Another easy component of this salad which can be made ahead. Actually, it is better made a day in advance. Note: I love to use a small tupperware container to make the dressing in. Just add everything, shake and store. But, you can use a small measuring cup or bowl. Add the tomato juice, tomato paste, olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and garlic (hold off on the basil). Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use. Before serving, add the basil and mix well.

Step 3

Sausage ... Add the sausage to a small non-stick pan on medium heat and saute until golden brown and lightly crisp - about 4-5 minutes if that. Transfer to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain. Then, put in a ziploc bag or bowl until ready to use. I always make ahead of time and then reheats in the microwave before adding to the salad. You can add it cold; but I prefer to serve it warm. It only takes 20-30 seconds on medium heat.

Step 4

Crust ... In a small measuring cup or bowl, add the olive oil, pepper, and oregano and mix well. Then, brush on a store bought pizza crust - top with the grated cheese and bake according to package directions until crusty and golden brown. Cut into thin wedges.

Step 5

Salad ...While your pizza crust cooks - make your salad. This is served family style, so use a big bowl or platter. Add the lettuce, onion, pepperoni, ham, reheated sausage, red peppers, and olives. Then, remove the mozzarella from the marinade using a slotted spoon; and add them to the salad. Top with some of the tomato dressing and toss well to combine.

Step 6

Note: I get my ham and pepperoni from the deli so you get exactly how much you need. Just a couple of slices which you can dice and just add to a ziploc bag and refrigerate until ready to use. Preparing ahead of time, makes this salad easy to get on the table in just a few minutes.