Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings the taste of Italy to your table. Packed with fresh ingredients like crispy lettuce, hearty chickpeas, creamy mozzarella, and flavorful Italian salami, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main meal or a side dish, this salad stands out with its tangy Pecorino Romano dressing. Its colorful presentation and robust flavors make it an ideal choice for gatherings, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare – With just 20 minutes needed, you can whip up this delightful salad in no time.
• Fresh and Flavorful – The combination of fresh vegetables and savory ingredients creates an explosion of flavors.
• Customizable – Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead of time by storing the dressing separately for crisp freshness when served.
• Healthy Choice – Nutrient-rich ingredients make this salad a wholesome option for lunch or dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into creating the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl or jar (for dressing)
• Whisk or jar lid (for mixing dressing)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl – It provides ample space to combine all salad ingredients without spilling.
• Small bowl or jar – Ideal for mixing the dressing efficiently; using a jar allows for easy storage too.
• Whisk or jar lid – A whisk helps blend the dressing smoothly; shaking in a jar ensures thorough mixing.

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 the ingredients together until well blended. If using a jar, close it tightly and shake until combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add shredded iceberg lettuce and romaine lettuce.
2. Incorporate chickpeas, thinly sliced Italian salami, and shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 3: Toss and Serve

1. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture.
2. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Serve immediately for maximum freshness! Enjoy!

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is versatile and can be served in numerous delightful ways. Whether as a main dish or a satisfying side, there are plenty of options to enhance your meal experience.

As a Main Course

• Add Grilled Chicken: Top the salad with sliced grilled chicken breast for added protein and flavor.
• Include Shrimp: Toss in cooked shrimp for a refreshing seafood twist.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with Steak: Serve alongside a juicy steak to complement the flavors of the salad.
• Enjoy with Pasta: This salad makes a perfect side for any pasta dish, balancing out hearty meals.

In a Wrap

• Wrap It Up: Use the salad as a filling in tortillas or flatbreads for a delicious wrap option.
• Stuffed Pitas: Fill pita bread with the salad for an easy, on-the-go lunch.

On a Buffet Table

• Ideal for Parties: Present it on buffet tables during gatherings, allowing guests to serve themselves.
• Picnic Favorite: Make it part of your picnic spread; it’s easy to transport and serve.

How to Perfect Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

To ensure your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
• Chill Your Ingredients: Keep your salad ingredients chilled before mixing for extra crispness.
• Adjust Dressing to Taste: Customize the dressing by adding more vinegar or mustard according to your preference.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Enhance flavor with fresh herbs like basil or parsley added just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

When serving Famous La Scala Chopped Salad, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread is great for soaking up any leftover dressing.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add warmth and texture to your meal.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make an elegant appetizer that pairs well with the salad.
4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil skewers provide an Italian touch that complements the salad.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers additional nutrients while keeping the meal healthy.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives creates an inviting spread alongside the chopped salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people love making salads, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the quality of your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or old vegetables can ruin the dish. Always choose fresh, crisp lettuce and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Overdressing the Salad: It’s easy to douse your salad with too much dressing. Start with a small amount and add more only if needed, ensuring every bite is perfectly coated.
• Ignoring Salami Quality: Not all salami is created equal. Opt for authentic Italian salami rather than generic deli meats to enhance the flavor of your salad.
• Not Preparing Dressing in Advance: Making the dressing just before serving can lead to a rushed meal. Prepare it ahead of time and let it sit for a deeper flavor.
• Tossing Too Hard: Tossing your salad too aggressively can bruise the greens. Gently mix the salad to keep everything intact and presentable.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• item It will last in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.
• item Keep dressing separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

• item Freezing is not recommended as it may affect texture and quality.
• item If necessary, only freeze individual components like chickpeas or cheese.

Reheating Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm leftovers briefly until heated through, but avoid sogginess.
• Microwave: Use short intervals of 30 seconds on medium power; stir between sessions.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed up.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad unique?

This salad stands out due to its combination of fresh lettuces, hearty chickpeas, flavorful Italian salami, and a rich Pecorino Romano dressing that ties everything together beautifully.

Can I customize the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?

Absolutely! You can add or substitute ingredients like grilled chicken, avocado, or even different types of cheese based on your preferences.

How should I serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?

The salad is perfect as a main dish or as a healthy side. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad can be prepared ahead of time. Just store the dressing separately and toss right before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. Its combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or proteins for an added twist!

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Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

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• Author: Leslie
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Discover the vibrant taste of Italy with the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad. This refreshing and colorful dish features a delightful mix of crispy lettuces, hearty chickpeas, creamy mozzarella, and savory Italian salami, all tossed in a tangy Pecorino Romano dressing. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quick weeknight meal, this salad is perfect for any occasion. Its bold flavors and crisp textures make it an ideal choice for picnics, barbecues, or as a satisfying main course or side. Plus, it’s quick to prepare in just 20 minutes!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)
• 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
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, and Pecorino Romano cheese. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended. If using a jar, close it tightly and shake until combined.
2. In a large mixing bowl, add shredded iceberg lettuce and romaine lettuce. Incorporate chickpeas, thinly sliced Italian salami, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
3. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Serve immediately for maximum freshness!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize by adding grilled chicken or your favorite veggies. Store the dressing separately if preparing ahead to maintain crispness.