Salad JUST Like At An Italian Restaurant

This salad is the perfect example of why I don't like bottled salad dressing. This one takes slightly bit more effort, but it seriously tastes as good as if you ordered it out at an Italian restaurant. I love love love this salad! The mild banana pepper rings are simply an amazing addition. This salad would be delicous with lasagna and/or garlic bread. We had it for lunch over the weekend and it may just become one of our staples. Try it on your next Italian dinner night--I guarantee your family will like it.

ITALIAN RESTAURANT SALAD
Adapted from www.thesweetslife.com

Serves 2-4 (depending on what else you are serving)

Dressing:
3 Tbsp. olive oil
2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
2 tsp. lemon juice
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. sugar
1/2 tsp. oregano
1/4 tsp. pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced finely

Salad:
8-10 cups torn leaf & romaine lettuce
1-2 tomatoes, cut into wedges
1/2 cup grated carrots
1/2 cup mild banana pepper rings
1/4 cup black olives (Kalamata are preferred, but you can do Spanish black olives instead)
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Croutons, optional

Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a small bowl. Cover until serving (don't need to refrigerate). You can even make the dressing in advance.

Toss lettuce with tomatoes, carrots, banana peppers, olives, and cheese. Add dressing and toss until well-coated. Serve immediately.