Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted to bring a true taste of Italy right into your own kitchen, the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. This vibrant salad boasts a perfect harmony of crisp iceberg and romaine lettuces, creamy mozzarella, savory Italian salami, and tangy chickpeas, all tossed in a zesty garlic-Dijon dressing. The balanced flavors and satisfying textures make it more than just a side salad—it’s a complete experience that’s sure to impress family, friends, or simply satisfy your own craving for something fresh and hearty. Trust me, once you try the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe, it will quickly become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing beats a salad made from simple, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role in the final flavor and texture. From the rich, sharp Pecorino Romano cheese that adds a salty punch to the satisfying crunch of shredded iceberg and romaine lettuces, every component works together beautifully in this recipe.

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil: The foundation of the dressing, providing smooth richness and a fruity aroma.
• 3 Tablespoons red wine vinegar: Adds vibrant acidity that brings all the ingredients to life.
• 2 cloves garlic minced: Fresh garlic gives a pungent kick that wakes up your taste buds.
• 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard (or 1 teaspoon dry mustard): Offers a subtle heat and tanginess that perfectly complements the oil and vinegar.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt and pepper: Balances the flavors and enhances the natural taste of each ingredient.
• ⅓ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or grated parmesan cheese): Adds savoriness and depth, enriching every bite.
• 1 head shredded iceberg lettuce (5-6 cups): Provides a refreshing crispness and lightness to the salad.
• 1 head shredded romaine lettuce (4-5 cups): Adds a heartier green with a slightly bitter note for complexity.
• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas (drained and rinsed): Brings creaminess and a boost of protein, making the salad more filling.
• ¼ lb (4 ounces) Italian salami (thinly sliced): Infuses smoky, spiced flavor that sings against the fresh veggies.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on the tongue, adding creaminess and richness.

How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Step 1: Whisk the Dressing

Start by combining the essential dressing elements in a small bowl or jar. Mix the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, pepper, and grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and emulsified, or shake it well in the jar if you’re on the go. This tangy and savory dressing is what brings all the salad ingredients together in perfect harmony.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

Grab a large bowl and add your shredded iceberg and romaine lettuces. These crisp greens provide the perfect crunchy base for the salad. Next, toss in the drained and rinsed chickpeas, which add a lovely creamy texture and hearty protein element. Then layer in the thinly sliced Italian salami for its bold, spiced flavor, along with the shredded mozzarella cheese that provides a smooth, melty contrast.

Step 3: Toss and Coat

Pour the freshly whisked dressing over the salad ingredients. Using clean hands or two large salad forks, toss everything gently but thoroughly. The goal here is to coat every shred of lettuce, every chickpea, and every slice of salami with that delicious dressing. This ensures each bite carries the full, vibrant flavor of the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe.

Step 4: Enjoy Immediately

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. The shredded lettuces stay crisp, and the dressing remains bright when eaten right away. Serve immediately for that impeccable balance of textures and flavors that this salad delivers on every time.

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Feel free to add a sprinkle of extra Pecorino Romano or some freshly cracked black pepper right before serving to elevate the flavors even more. Thinly sliced fresh basil or a handful of chopped pepperoncini can add a fresh herbaceous or spicy pop that complements the salami beautifully.

Side Dishes

This chopped salad pairs wonderfully with light Italian dishes like grilled chicken, shrimp scampi, or a crusty baguette smeared with a bit of pesto or olive tapenade. It also serves beautifully as a standalone meal if you want something hearty yet fresh and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve this salad in clear glass bowls to showcase its colorful layers, or compose individual salad cups for a festive touch. You can even toast some Italian bread slices and present the salad alongside as a makeshift open-faced sandwich platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the dressing separate to maintain the lettuce’s crispness, but if dressed, eat within 1 to 2 days before the greens start to wilt.

Freezing

This salad isn’t suitable for freezing thanks to the fresh greens and cheese components, which don’t hold up well after thawing. For best results, always prepare fresh or consume leftovers quickly.

Reheating

Since this salad is designed to be served cold and fresh, reheating isn’t recommended. However, if you want to use leftovers in a warm dish, consider adding the salad components to a pasta or warm grain bowl fresh instead.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Pecorino Romano?

Absolutely! While Pecorino Romano lends a sharp saltiness that’s classic to the recipe, parmesan works well too. For a milder taste, you could try asiago or even a tangy feta to change things up.

Is the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the salami brand to ensure no gluten-containing fillers are added.

Can I substitute the salami with another protein?

Definitely. If you prefer something lighter or non-pork, try smoked turkey, grilled chicken, or even chickpeas alone for a vegetarian option. The key is balancing the protein with the cheese and creamy dressing.

How long does the salad dressing keep?

The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before using as the ingredients may separate over time.

What’s the best way to chop the lettuce for this salad?

Use a sharp knife to finely chop the iceberg and romaine lettuce to about bite-sized pieces so the salad blends well with the diced chickpeas, cheese, and salami. Uniform chopping makes for a beautiful texture and easy eating experience.

Final Thoughts

Taste, texture, and sheer joy come together beautifully in the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner or impressing guests, the fresh ingredients and tangy dressing create a truly unforgettable salad experience. I encourage you to gather the ingredients, try this recipe, and watch it quickly become one of your most cherished salads. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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