Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad: 1 Amazing Recipe

Name: Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad: 1 Amazing Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 10-inch pizza crusts; 1/2 cup marinara sauce; Crushed red pepper (optional); 2 heads of little gem lettuce, roughly chopped; 1/2 cup halved sun gold tomatoes; 1/3 cup soppressata, sliced; 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan; 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion; 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini; For the Dressing:; 1 1/2 tbsp Greek yogurt; 1/2 tbsp mayo; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 1/2 tbsp white wine vinegar; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tbsp chopped parsley; 1 tbsp grated Parmesan; 1/4 tsp oregano; Pinch of salt and pepper; 1/2 tsp honey

by Jannet Lisa

23 de July de 2025

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Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad has become my go-to for a quick yet incredibly satisfying meal, reminiscent of my first taste of that iconic Italian-American pizza. I still remember the first time I tried the original; the crisp crust, the vibrant salad, and that amazing creamy Parmesan dressing just blew me away. It was a flavor explosion that felt both comforting and exciting. This version captures that magic perfectly, bringing the best of pizza and fresh salad together in one delightful bite. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a restaurant favorite right at home. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad

This Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad is a game-changer for so many reasons:

Incredible flavor combination that balances savory pizza with a fresh, zesty salad.
Remarkably quick prep time, perfect for busy weeknights.
A healthier twist with plenty of fresh vegetables and lean protein.
Much more budget-friendly than dining out at the original spot.
A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love.
The unique pizza with salad topping offers a delightful textural contrast.
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a gourmet-style soppressata pizza at home.
You get the best of both worlds: satisfying pizza and a refreshing salad!

Ingredients for Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad

To recreate this amazing dish, you’ll need these fresh ingredients:

2 10-inch pizza crusts – a crisp base is key for this salad pizza
1/2 cup marinara sauce – for a classic pizza foundation
Crushed red pepper (optional) – for a touch of heat
2 heads of little gem lettuce, roughly chopped – this delicate lettuce is perfect for a little gem lettuce pizza
1/2 cup halved sun gold tomatoes – their sweetness pops on this sun gold tomato pizza
1/3 cup soppressata, sliced – adds a savory, spicy note
1/4 cup shaved Parmesan – for that salty, nutty finish
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion – provides a sharp bite
1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini – for a briny tang
For the Dressing:
1 1/2 tbsp Greek yogurt – makes the dressing creamy and tangy
1/2 tbsp mayo – adds richness to the dressing
1 tbsp olive oil – the base for our vinaigrette
1 1/2 tbsp white wine vinegar – for brightness
1 clove garlic, minced – essential for flavor
1 tbsp chopped parsley – for fresh herb notes
1 tbsp grated Parmesan – boosts the cheesy flavor
1/4 tsp oregano – classic Italian herb
Pinch of salt and pepper – to taste
1/2 tsp honey – a touch of sweetness to balance the dressing

How to Make Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad

Making this Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad is a surprisingly simple process that yields incredible results. You’ll be amazed at how easily you can replicate that famous flavor at home!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place your pizza crusts on a baking sheet. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over each crust, leaving a small border for the crust. If you like a little heat, sprinkle on some crushed red pepper now.
Step 2: Bake the crusts for about 8-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp. The smell of the warm marinara will fill your kitchen – it’s a great sign!
Step 3: While the pizza crusts are baking, prepare your salad. In a large bowl, combine the roughly chopped little gem lettuce, halved sun gold tomatoes, sliced soppressata, shaved Parmesan, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced pepperoncini.
Step 4: Now, let’s whip up that amazing creamy Parmesan dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayo, olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, oregano, a pinch of salt and pepper, and the honey. Whisk until it’s smooth and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. It should be bright and flavorful!
Step 5: Once the pizza crusts are perfectly crisp, remove them from the oven. Gently toss the prepared salad with the creamy Parmesan dressing until everything is well coated. You want the greens to be coated but not drowning.
Step 6: Carefully arrange the dressed salad mixture evenly over the warm, baked pizza crusts. This is where your salad pizza truly comes to life! Top with a little extra shaved Parmesan if you desire, and a final dash of crushed red pepper for those who love a kick. Serve immediately and enjoy this fantastic salad pizza creation!

Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad - detail 2

Pro Tips for the Best Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad

Elevate your homemade version of this iconic dish with these insider tips:

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially for the soppressata and Parmesan.
Don’t overdress the salad; you want it coated, not soggy, to maintain that delightful crispness.
Ensure your pizza crust is truly crisp before adding the salad topping; a slightly underbaked crust will get soggy quickly.
Taste and adjust the dressing seasonings before tossing the salad.

What’s the secret to perfect Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad?

The secret lies in the balance of textures and flavors: a super crisp crust, the vibrant, slightly peppery salad, and the creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a brilliant take on Italian pizza. For more on the history of pizza and its variations, you can explore resources on pizza history.

Can I make Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad components and the dressing ahead of time, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Bake the pizza crusts just before serving and assemble to prevent sogginess.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad?

Avoid overmixing the salad, which can bruise the delicate lettuce. Also, ensure your pizza crust bakes until truly crisp; a soft crust is the enemy of this salad pizza.

Best Ways to Serve Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad

This Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad is amazing on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it even more special. Serve it hot right after assembly for the best texture, ensuring that crisp pizza crust holds up perfectly under the fresh salad. For a truly authentic experience, consider pairing it with a simple side like garlic knots or a light Italian soup, much like you might find at Jon Vinny’s Pizza. It’s a complete meal that feels gourmet but is so easy to make at home! You can find more thumbs up inspiration for your cooking adventures.

Nutrition Facts for Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad

Here are the estimated nutritional values per serving for this delicious Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad:

Calories: 450 kcal
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Protein: 14g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For general information on nutritional guidelines, consult resources like the National Nutrition Guidelines.

How to Store and Reheat Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad

Proper storage is key to enjoying this Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad later. Once it has cooled completely, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. While the assembled salad pizza is best enjoyed fresh, you can refrigerate any remaining portions for 3-4 days. Unfortunately, freezing assembled salad pizza isn’t recommended as the lettuce and crust can become mushy. For longer storage, you could bake the pizza crusts and store the salad ingredients and dressing separately in the fridge for up to 3 months, then assemble when ready to eat. To reheat, you can gently warm the pizza crusts in a toaster oven or oven until crisp, then top with fresh salad greens and dressing for the best texture – it’s like a quick anti-inflammatory breakfast smoothie for your pizza! If you’re looking for more quick meal ideas, check out these ready-to-go options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad

Is this a true Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad?

While it’s a close match, I’ve tweaked some elements to make it easier for home cooks. It captures the essence of that incredible Italian-American pizza with its fresh salad topping, but feel free to adjust the ingredients to your taste. It’s about capturing that spirit!

Can I use different greens for Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad?

Absolutely! While little gem lettuce is wonderful, you can substitute with romaine or even a spring mix. Just ensure the leaves are sturdy enough to hold up to the dressing and the pizza crust. It’s still a fantastic salad pizza, no matter the greens!

What kind of pizza crust works best for this Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad?

A thin, crisp crust is ideal for this Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad. You can use pre-made pizza crusts, flatbreads, or even naan bread. The key is to bake it until it’s golden and firm so it doesn’t get soggy under the salad. It’s a key component of this American Pizza style.

Can I add other toppings to my Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Grilled chicken, extra vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers, or even a different type of cured meat would be delicious additions. It’s your version of this popular pizza with salad topping!

Variations of Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic Copycat Jon Vinnys Salad, don’t be afraid to experiment! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

Vegetarian Delight: Omit the soppressata and add roasted bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or grilled halloumi cheese for a delicious vegetarian take on the pizza with salad topping.
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of chili oil to the salad or dressing. You can also use a spicier marinara sauce on the pizza base.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pizza crust and ensure your other ingredients (like crushed red pepper and optional additions) are also certified gluten-free. It’s still a fantastic pizza with salad topping experience!
Grill Master’s Version: Instead of baking, grill your pizza crusts until golden and slightly charred for an extra smoky flavor dimension. This method works wonderfully for a summer BBQ.