Cuban Salad

15 minutes

This Cuban Chopped Salad has all the flavors of a Cuban Sandwich… in salad form! Made with just 10 ingredients, it’s quick, easy, and pretty much guaranteed to be a new favorite.

There’s something about a good salad that always gets me. And when it’s a salad that’s also a sandwich? Even better.

I’ve always been a fan of trying classics in new ways – case in point, my famous Cobb Salad Dip – and this Cuban Salad is no exception. It has all the flavors you know and love… in a deliciously hearty, low carb salad.

And just to satisfy the carb lovers among us, I decided to throw in some homemade croutons. Because homemade is ALWAYS better… and a little bread never hurt anyone. Am I right?

This salad is packed full of protein, and… most importantly… delicious flavor. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and guaranteed to satisfy!

what you’ll need for this recipe

Lettuce – Lettuce is the base of this recipe, and I used 1 heart of Romaine. You could also substitute iceberg or butter lettuce if you prefer. I wouldn’t suggest spinach or spring mix in this recipe, since the leaves are delicate and won’t hold up as well to the heavier ingredients in this salad.

Ham – Ham is a key ingredient in a Cuban Sandwich and in this recipe. I used 4 slices of deli ham, chopped. You can feel free to use leftover ham, honey ham, or cubed ham if you prefer.

Pulled pork – Pulled pork is another key ingredient in a Cuban Sandwich. I used 1 cup of pulled pork, which can either be made in your crock pot or purchased pre-made at the grocery store.

Swiss cheese – Every good Cuban has Swiss cheese, and this salad does too! I used 1/2 cup of shredded Swiss, although you can feel free to use more or less according to taste. If you’re looking to substitute, I would suggest Mozzarella or Provolone for their mild flavor and similar texture.

Dill pickles – Dill Pickles on a salad? Why not!? This recipe calls for 1/3 cup of chopped dill pickles. I used midget dills, which I find to be extra crunchy. You can feel free to use any type you have on hand OR substitute bread & butter pickles if you prefer.

Croutons – I used homemade croutons in place of the bread in this recipe. You can use your favorite store bought variety or omit them for a gluten free salad.

Salad dressing – No dressing is complete without the dressing, and this one is extra simple! Simply combine 1/4 cup of mayo, 2 Tablespoons of dijon mustard, and 1 Tablespoon of lemon juice. Whisk well and drizzle it as desired.

how to make a Cuban Salad

Chop ingredients. Start by chopping your lettuce, ham, and pickles. The size is up to you… feel free to chop the ingredients as big or small as you like.

Prep other ingredients. Next, shred your Swiss cheese according to preference. If you’re making homemade croutons, get them prepped and in the oven.

Layer the salad in bowls. Once the ingredients are all prepped, layer them in 2 shallow bowls. Divide the ingredients evenly between the bowls or as desired.

Add the dressing. Mix the dressing by combining 1/4 cup mayo, 2 Tablespoons dijon mustard, and 1 Tablespoon lemon juice. Whisk well and drizzle over each salad to taste.