This La Scala Chopped Salad is a delightful and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the freshness of lettuce, the savory taste of cheese, and the convenience of a simple vinaigrette. As we explore the world of salads, you’ll find that this recipe stands out for its ease of preparation and the burst of flavors it offers.
Meanwhile, for a delicious dip to accompany your salad, consider trying the Mexican Street Corn Dip, which pairs perfectly with the Mediterranean flavors found in this salad.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
One of the reasons this salad is a favorite among many is its versatility. It can be served as a side dish, a light lunch, or even as a topping for a wholesome dinner bowl. The combination of textures, from the crunch of the lettuce to the creaminess of the cheese, makes every bite exciting. Moreover, the simplicity of the vinaigrette, made with extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through.
Base Components
The foundation of this salad includes shredded iceberg and romaine lettuce, which provide a fresh and crisp base. Adding to this are chickpeas for protein, and sliced turkey salami for a meaty, savory element. The mozzarella cheese contributes a creamy texture, while the Pecorino Romano cheese adds a sharp, salty flavor.
Recipe
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Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
- Total Time: 20 min
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Italian-inspired salad
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (80 ml)
- 3 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar (45 ml)
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard (or 1 teaspoon dry mustard)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/3 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or grated parmesan cheese) (40 g)
- 1 head shredded iceberg lettuce (5–6 cups)
- 1 head shredded romaine lettuce (4–5 cups)
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas (drained and rinsed) (425 g)
- 1/4 lb (4 ounces) sliced turkey salami (thinly sliced) (115 g)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (220 g)
Instructions
- Add all of the salad dressing ingredients to a small bowl or small jar.
- Whisk everything together or close the lid and shake to combine.
- To a large bowl, add the shredded lettuce, chickpeas, sliced turkey salami, and mozzarella cheese.
- Pour the prepared dressing on top and toss to coat.
Notes
- Enjoy this la scala salad recipe right away.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for 1-2 days.
- Store the dressing separately to prep in advance.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 371 kcal
- Sugar: 1.6 g
- Sodium: 1216 mg
- Fat: 24.7 g
- Carbohydrates: 13.8 g
- Fiber: 4.6 g
- Protein: 24.7 g
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this salad, you will need the following ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, pepper, Pecorino Romano cheese, iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, chickpeas, sliced turkey salami, and mozzarella cheese. For those looking to substitute some ingredients, turkey salami can replace Italian salami, and grated parmesan can be used instead of Pecorino Romano cheese.
Sauce and Seasonings
The dressing for this salad is straightforward, combining extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This vinaigrette is whisked together or shaken in a jar to emulsify, then poured over the salad and tossed to coat evenly.
How to Make This Salad
Making the La Scala Chopped Salad is a breeze. First, add all the dressing ingredients to a small bowl or jar and whisk or shake them together. Next, in a large bowl, combine the shredded lettuce, chickpeas, sliced turkey salami, and mozzarella cheese. Finally, pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or jar.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded iceberg and romaine lettuce, chickpeas, sliced turkey salami, and mozzarella cheese.
Step 3: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your salad turns out delicious, use fresh and high-quality ingredients. For an added twist, consider pairing your salad with dips like the Extra Virgin Olive Oil Herb Dip for a richer flavor experience.
Flavor Variations
For those looking to experiment with different flavors, adding some grilled chicken or swapping the cheese with feta can introduce new dimensions to the salad. Moreover, incorporating vegetables like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers can add more freshness and variety.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. It makes a great side dish for BBQs or picnics, and it can also be the main ingredient in a dinner bowl, paired with crusty bread or as a topping for a bed of quinoa.
Pairing with Other Dishes
Consider pairing your La Scala Chopped Salad with the Lemon Ricotta Spread on crackers or bread for a light and refreshing snack or lunch.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
This salad is best consumed fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s recommended to store the dressing separately and pour it over the salad just before serving to maintain crispness and freshness.
Nutrition Facts per Serving
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein | Fiber | Sugar | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 371 kcal | 24.7 g | 13.8 g | 24.7 g | 4.6 g | 1.6 g | 1216 mg |
FAQs About This Salad
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
<p,Yes, you can prepare the components of the salad in advance, but it’s best to assemble and dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
Is This Salad Suitable for Vegetarians?
Yes, by omitting the salami or replacing it with a vegetarian alternative, this salad can beMade suitable for vegetarians.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that combines fresh lettuce, chickpeas, cheese, and savory meats in a delicious Mediterranean-inspired vinaigrette.
Its versatility, ease of preparation, and burst of flavors make it a perfect choice for any meal, whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish, or a hearty dinner bowl. With its rich flavors and satisfying crunch, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your household.
