If you have a soft spot for vibrant, hearty salads that deliver a burst of flavor in every bite, then you are going to fall head over heels for the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe. This salad is a beautiful medley of crisp lettuces, savory Italian salami, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy dressing that effortlessly ties everything together. Perfect for a quick lunch or a stunning side at dinner, it balances textures and tastes in a way that feels both comforting and invigorating. Trust me, once you try this salad, it will become your go-to for both casual meals and special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in making this salad sing. From the crispness of fresh lettuces to the salty kick of Pecorino Romano, every component is essential for that perfect harmony of flavors and inviting textures.
- Extra virgin olive oil (â…“ cup): This forms the rich, fruity base of the dressing, bringing everything together smoothly.
- Red wine vinegar (3 Tablespoons): Adds brightness and an invigorating tang to balance the richness of the cheese and salami.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2 cloves): Imparts a gentle punch of aromatic depth that wakes up the palate.
- Dijon mustard or dry mustard (3 teaspoons or 1 teaspoon): Gives the dressing a subtle sharpness and creamy texture.
- Kosher salt and pepper (½ teaspoon each): Essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese (â…“ cup): Offers a salty, nutty note that adds complexity and a lovely savory finish.
- Shredded iceberg lettuce (1 head, about 5-6 cups): Provides crispness and refreshing crunch as the salad’s foundation.
- Shredded romaine lettuce (1 head, about 4-5 cups): Adds a slightly bitter edge and sturdy texture to hold up against the dressing.
- Chickpeas, canned (15-ounce can, drained and rinsed): Brings a creamy, hearty bite that makes the salad more filling.
- Italian salami, thinly sliced (¼ lb or 4 ounces): The star of the protein portion with bold, savory flavor and a satisfying chew.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melts on the tongue for a mild, milky counterpoint to the sharp Pecorino.
How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
This dressing is simple yet incredibly flavorful, combining the vibrant notes of garlic, mustard, and vinegar with the richness of olive oil. Add the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and pepper into a small bowl or jar. Whisk everything together until it becomes a smooth, cohesive dressing. If using a jar, sealing and shaking is just as effective and super easy.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
Start with a large salad bowl and toss in the shredded iceberg and romaine lettuces, which offer a fantastic textural contrast—crisp and hearty. Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas for that satisfying bite and subtle earthiness. Next, spread in thinly sliced Italian salami for that quintessential Italian flavor punch. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, ensuring every forkful gets a creamy surprise.
Step 3: Toss with the Dressing
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad bowl’s contents. Using salad tongs or clean hands, toss everything together gently but thoroughly. The dressing will coat the lettuce and other ingredients beautifully, making every bite bright, tangy, and delicious. Finish by sprinkling on the grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of savory goodness.
How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this salad’s presentation and flavor, consider adding a few fresh basil leaves or chopped fresh parsley on top. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze can also add a touch of sweetness and gorgeous visual appeal. Cracked black pepper freshly ground over the top adds a subtle spicy note that wakes up the palate further.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with a crusty baguette or warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious dressing. Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a fuller meal, or offer it next to a rich Italian pasta dish to add balance and brightness to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe layered in individual glass jars or clear bowls to show off the beautiful colors and textures. For dinner parties, consider portioning it into small appetizer plates topped with a few whole chickpeas and a delicate piece of salami for a sophisticated touch. It’s visually stunning and just as enjoyable to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. This will keep the greens crisp and prevent them from wilting. When ready to eat, toss everything together fresh to restore that perfect texture and flavor balance.
Freezing
Freezing this salad is not recommended because the lettuce will become soggy and lose its refreshing crunch once thawed. However, if you want to freeze ingredients like the dressing or salami separately, that’s totally fine and practical.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh salad, reheating is not necessary or advisable. Instead, enjoy the salad chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience. If you’ve added this as a side to warm dishes, feel free to gently warm those separately.
FAQs
Can I use other types of lettuce in the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! While iceberg and romaine provide the ideal crunch and texture contrast, you can experiment with kale, arugula, or mixed greens if you prefer a different flavor profile or nutrient boost. Just keep in mind that some greens might be more delicate and require gentle tossing.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
As written, the salad includes Italian salami, which is a meat product. However, you can easily omit the salami or replace it with a vegetarian protein option like roasted chickpeas or even tofu to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
How long does the dressing keep?
The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in a sealed container. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.
Can I prepare the salad in advance?
You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time—shred the lettuce, slice the salami, and even mix the dressing. However, it’s best to combine and toss the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
What variations can I try on the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe?
Feel free to add other Italian-inspired ingredients like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or olives for extra layers of flavor. Another idea is to swap mozzarella for provolone or add a handful of toasted pine nuts for crunch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so deeply satisfying about the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe that it quickly becomes a favorite in any kitchen. It’s a vibrant, flavorful salad that feels both hearty and fresh, perfect for those busy days when you want a meal that’s simple but never boring. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or taking it to a potluck, this salad delivers warmth, comfort, and a little Italian magic in every bite. I cannot wait for you to give it a try and add it to your collection of beloved recipes!
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Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a vibrant and hearty Italian-inspired salad featuring a mix of shredded iceberg and romaine lettuces, chickpeas, Italian salami, and shredded mozzarella, all tossed in a tangy and flavorful homemade dressing of olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and Pecorino Romano cheese. This easy-to-make salad captures a perfect balance of textures and bold flavors, ideal for a light lunch or a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients
Dressing
- â…“ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 Tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard or 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt and pepper
- â…“ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese or grated parmesan cheese
Salad
- 1 head shredded iceberg lettuce (5–6 cups)
- 1 head shredded romaine lettuce (4–5 cups)
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ¼ lb (4 ounces) Italian salami, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Add the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard (or dry mustard), kosher salt, pepper, and grated Pecorino Romano cheese into a small bowl or jar. Whisk vigorously or close the lid and shake well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined into a smooth and flavorful dressing.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded iceberg lettuce, shredded romaine lettuce, drained and rinsed chickpeas, thinly sliced Italian salami, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Toss the Salad: Gently toss all the salad ingredients with the dressing until everything is evenly coated, ensuring a uniform distribution of flavors and textures throughout the salad.
- Serve: Serve immediately for the freshest taste and texture, or chill briefly if preferred. This salad pairs well as a main course or a deli-style side dish.
Notes
- You can use Parmesan cheese as a substitute for Pecorino Romano if preferred.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the Italian salami or replace it with a vegetarian deli meat.
- Make sure to rinse and drain the chickpeas thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
- This salad is best served fresh to preserve the crispness of the lettuce.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste depending on the saltiness of the salami and cheese.
