When Bella’s was open in Downtown Melbourne, it was one of my favorite spots to dine. Their signature salad, the Bella Salad, is by far one of my favorite salads ever. It is basically a marinated olive salad served over romaine. I am not a big olive fan (a little goes a long way for me), but this salad has a ton of flavor! If you want some additional protein, top with cannellini beans or grilled or roasted chicken.

BELLA SALAD

• 1 head romaine lettuce, cut

• 3-4 Roma tomatoes, chopped*

• 1/2 cup each black* and green olives, sliced

• 1 cup roasted red peppers*, sliced

• 1 cup quartered artichokes

• 1/3 cup onion, sliced into 1″ pieces

• 1/2 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese (coupon available for Treasure Cave)*

• 2 teaspoons minced garlic

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

*On sale at Publix

Divide desired amount of romaine onto four salad plates. Mix tomatoes through garlic. Gently stir to combine and drizzle with olive oil, vinegar, and season with salt and pepper. Gently stir again and then divide evenly between beds of romaine. Allowing the olive salad to sit fit a few hours before placing on the lettuce helps the flavors marry and become even tastier. Double the recipe for a quick lunch or dinner for the next few days, or do this for a great make-ahead side when company is coming. Just place the olive salad on top of the romaine bed before serving.