This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a delightful mix of fresh ingredients that brightens up any meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a party side dish, this salad combines crispy lettuce, hearty chickpeas, creamy mozzarella, and flavorful Italian salami. The tangy Pecorino Romano dressing ties everything together, making it a standout option for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting friends or just looking for a healthy meal prep idea, this salad checks all the boxes.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Dressing
- For the Salad
- For Garnish
- How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
- Step 1: Make the Dressing
- Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- Step 3: Toss and Serve
- How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
- As a Main Course
- As a Side Dish
- In a Wrap
- For Meal Prep
- How to Perfect Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
- Best Side Dishes for Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
- Reheating Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad special?
- Can I customize my Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?
- How long does the dressing last?
- Is Famous La Scala Chopped Salad suitable for meal prep?
- What are some variations of Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Fresh Ingredients: Packed with crisp vegetables and protein-rich chickpeas, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish to complement your favorite proteins.
- Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dressing in advance to streamline your meal prep and keep the salad crisp until serving.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its vibrant flavors and textures, this salad is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad, gather the essential tools. This will help ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl or jar (for dressing)
- Whisk or lid for shaking
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all your fresh ingredients without mess.
- Small bowl or jar: Perfect for mixing the dressing quickly; a jar allows easy storage if prepping ahead.
- Whisk or lid for shaking: Ensures your dressing gets fully combined for maximum flavor distribution.
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- ⅓ 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 freshly ground black pepper
- ⅓ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or Parmesan cheese)
For the Salad
- 1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded (5-6 cups)
- 1 head romaine lettuce, shredded (4-5 cups)
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ¼ lb (4 ounces) Italian salami, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar:
1. Combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
2. Whisk together until well blended or close the jar and shake vigorously until combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add shredded iceberg lettuce and romaine lettuce.
2. Include drained chickpeas, thinly sliced Italian salami, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 3: Toss and Serve
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture.
- Gently toss everything together to ensure an even coating of dressing.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness!
This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad not only delights with its taste but also brings vibrant colors to your table! Enjoy this versatile dish at any gathering or simply as part of your healthy eating routine.
How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a standalone meal or paired with other dishes, its fresh ingredients and zesty dressing make it a hit at any gathering.
As a Main Course
- Serve it chilled for a refreshing lunch option.
- Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a well-rounded meal.
As a Side Dish
- Complement your favorite Italian dishes like pasta or pizza.
- Offer it as a colorful addition to BBQ spreads.
In a Wrap
- Use the salad as a filling in whole grain wraps for an easy lunch on the go.
- Add extra protein like turkey or tofu for a more filling option.
For Meal Prep
- Portion the salad into containers for quick grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain crispness.
How to Perfect Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
To elevate your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure every bite is bursting with flavor and freshness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose the freshest vegetables and quality salami for best results.
- Customize Your Greens: Feel free to mix different greens like spinach or arugula for added flavor.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled salad for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
- Add More Protein: Consider incorporating grilled shrimp or chickpeas for added nutrition and heartiness.
- Experiment with Dressings: While Pecorino Romano dressing is classic, try adding herbs like basil or oregano for an extra kick.
- Serve Immediately: To keep the salad crispy, serve right after tossing with the dressing.
Best Side Dishes for Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Famous La Scala Chopped Salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes, making your meal even more delightful. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, this classic bread makes a perfect accompaniment.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and herbs enhances your Italian theme.
- Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies adds color and flavor while keeping things healthy.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese and breadcrumbs provide a delicious contrast.
- Italian Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cured meats, and cheeses complements the salad wonderfully.
- Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters add texture and are an excellent way to include more veggies in your meal.
- Roasted Potatoes: Herb-infused roasted potatoes offer heartiness without overpowering the salad’s flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to avoid:
- Using the Wrong Ingredients: Ensure you use Italian salami instead of standard deli meats for authentic flavor. This choice elevates the dish.
- Skipping Freshness: Fresh ingredients are key. Avoid pre-packaged salads that can lack quality and taste. Always choose fresh lettuce and high-quality cheese.
- Overdressing the Salad: Too much dressing can overwhelm the salad. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to suit your taste.
- Not Tossing Well: Failing to toss the salad properly means uneven distribution of flavors. Take your time to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Making it Too Early: Prepare the salad close to serving time to maintain its crispness. If you must make it ahead, store the dressing separately.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days.
- item Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.
Freezing Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
- item Freezing is not recommended due to lettuce texture changes upon thawing.
- item If you must freeze components like chickpeas or salami, do so separately.
Reheating Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm components like salami on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid wilting greens.
- Stovetop: Warm ingredients in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad special?
This salad features fresh ingredients combined with a tangy Pecorino Romano dressing, making it both flavorful and nutritious.
Can I customize my Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?
Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.
How long does the dressing last?
The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Is Famous La Scala Chopped Salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Prepare the salad ingredients and store them separately from the dressing for quick meals throughout the week.
What are some variations of Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?
You can experiment with different cheeses, add nuts or seeds, or switch up the proteins based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to impress. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad, a refreshing and nutritious dish that brings a burst of freshness to any meal. This delightful blend features crisp iceberg and romaine lettuce, hearty chickpeas, creamy mozzarella, and savory Italian salami, all tossed together in a tangy Pecorino Romano dressing. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a crowd-pleasing side dish at gatherings, this salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients. Its quick preparation time makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal-prepping for the week ahead. Enjoy the colorful medley of textures and flavors that will impress family and friends alike!
Ingredients
- 1 head iceberg lettuce
- 1 head romaine lettuce
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas
- ¼ lb Italian salami
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ⅓ 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 freshly ground black pepper
- ⅓ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or Parmesan cheese)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and Pecorino Romano cheese until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded iceberg and romaine lettuce with drained chickpeas, sliced salami, and shredded mozzarella.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately for maximum freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
