In an Epic Salad Bowl, if using bagged lettuce, add both varieties of lettuce and toss with your hands to mix it up. If using fresh, wash and air dry and tear into bite-sized pieces. TIP: You can prepare the lettuce ahead and leave in the fridge to get nice and chilled before adding all of the ingredients.

Using a mandolin, slice the red onion, then cut a few times to make smaller pieces, and add to the lettuce. Optional to dice the red onion.

Add matchstick pieces of provolone cheese. Optional to add shredded mozzarella cheese if you are in a hurry.

Cut the small pepperoni slices in half and add to the greens.

While preparing the above, drain a cup of peperoncini and the black olives, and add to the greens. Optional to chop the peperoncini if you like smaller pieces, and we like to leave the black medium olives whole. Also optional to dice.

Add chunks of red tomatoes.

We sprinkle the grated, powdery Parmesan cheese that comes in a can next, but you can also add fresh grated Parmesan.

Next, sprinkle the salad with Trader Joe’s Pizza Seasoning. You can also use Italian seasoning.

Garnish the salad with fresh chopped chives.

Optional to make your own dressing, or you can buy store-bought.

Add fresh cracked pepper (and salt if you prefer).

Sprinkle with croutons. Optional to leave the croutons on the side and let guests add their own (to prevent any sogginess).

NOTE: Do not add the dressing until right before serving, as the salad can get a little soggy.

When ready to serve, drizzle with dressing and serve.