Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that come together to create a vibrant, healthy dish. Perfect for any occasion, whether you’re planning a casual lunch or an elegant dinner party, this salad stands out with its rich flavors and textures. The combination of crisp lettuces, savory salami, and creamy cheese makes it a favorite among salad lovers.

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
• How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
• Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
• Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients
• Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
• How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
• As a Main Dish
• With Grilled Proteins
• At Gatherings
• As a Light Snack
• In Wraps
• How to Perfect Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
• Reheating Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe special?
• Can I customize the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe?
• How long does the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad last in the fridge?
• Is the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad can be made in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: With the perfect mix of ingredients, each bite delivers a burst of flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side to complement any meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this salad is both nutritious and delicious.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It stores well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy leftovers for days.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad successful, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Small jar or bowl for dressing
• Whisk or shaker
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk or shaker: This tool ensures your dressing blends smoothly, enhancing the overall flavor of your salad.

Ingredients

This famous La Scala Chopped Salad is so easy to make at home! Toss the dressing and all of the ingredients together and enjoy on its own as a main dish or healthy lunch, or serve it on the side with your favorite protein.

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 pepper

For the Salad

• ⅓ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or grated parmesan cheese)
• 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

How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. Add all of the salad dressing ingredients to a small bowl or jar.
2. Whisk everything together until well combined or close the lid and shake vigorously.

Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, chickpeas, Italian salami, and mozzarella cheese.
2. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture.
3. Toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with dressing.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

1. This La Scala salad recipe is best enjoyed immediately while fresh.
2. If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

With these straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious Famous La Scala Chopped Salad ready to impress your family or guests!

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether as a main dish or a side, it enhances any meal with its fresh flavors and satisfying crunch.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it chilled for a refreshing lunch option.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair with steak or pork chops for a hearty dinner.
• Serve alongside grilled salmon for a light and nutritious meal.

At Gatherings

• Present it at potlucks or barbecues as a crowd-pleaser.
• Serve in individual cups for easy portioning at parties.

As a Light Snack

• Enjoy it on its own as a healthy afternoon snack.
• Use it as a topping for whole-grain crackers.

In Wraps

• Wrap the salad in whole wheat tortillas for a quick on-the-go meal.
• Combine with hummus in pita bread for added flavor.

How to Perfect Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

To create the perfect version of this salad, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lettuce and high-quality cheese enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust dressing to taste: Feel free to modify the acidity by adding more vinegar or sweetness with honey.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
• Add seasonal vegetables: Incorporate seasonal veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and nutrients.
• Store components separately: Keep dressing separate from the salad until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
• Experiment with proteins: Try different proteins like grilled chicken or tofu to customize your salad.

Best Side Dishes for Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the salad’s freshness perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrients to your meal.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These can be filled with rice, beans, or meat, making them a hearty side option.
4. Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish featuring fresh vegetables enhances the Italian theme of the meal.
5. Caprese Skewers: Simple skewers of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide an additional Italian flair.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty side is healthy and offers texture that pairs wonderfully with the salad.
7. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes for an easy yet elegant appetizer.
8. Grilled Asparagus: Seasoned simply with olive oil and salt, grilled asparagus adds a gourmet touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters! Always check the expiration dates on ingredients like cheeses and dressings to ensure your salad tastes its best.
• Skipping the dressing: The dressing is key to flavor. Skipping or skimping on it can lead to a bland salad. Make sure to coat all ingredients evenly.
• Not chopping evenly: Large chunks can disrupt the texture of your salad. Aim for uniform pieces for a balanced bite every time.
• Using low-quality cheese: Quality cheese enhances flavor. Opt for freshly grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan instead of pre-packaged options.
• Not storing properly: Improper storage can lead to soggy leftovers. Keep the salad and dressing separate until ready to eat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

• Avoid freezing: This salad does not freeze well due to the lettuce and cheese, which can become watery.

Reheating Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

• Oven: Not recommended as this salad is best served cold or at room temperature.
• Microwave: Avoid microwaving; it will wilt the greens and change the texture.
• Stovetop: Just toss it with fresh ingredients if you want to warm slightly; however, it’s best enjoyed chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe:

What makes the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe special?

This salad stands out thanks to its combination of crunchy textures, savory salami, and a tangy dressing that brings everything together beautifully.

Can I customize the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or even substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand.

How long does the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, this salad lasts up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Is the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare all ingredients in advance and keep them stored separately until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect as a main dish or a side for any meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or proteins. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Italy right from your kitchen!