Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe: A Hollywood Favorite You Can Make at Home

In my kitchen, this La Scala Chopped Salad has become a go-to dish, celebrated for its vibrant colors and fresh flavors. It’s that perfect salad to whip up for a casual family dinner or to serve at a gathering with friends. What makes it even more special is the way each bite bursts with delightful crunchiness, combined with savory, tangy dressing that ties everything together.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This La Scala Chopped Salad isn’t just tasty; it’s a fantastic way to incorporate fresh veggies into your diet while still enjoying a fulfilling meal. It’s great for weeknight dinners when you want something quick, or it can shine as a side dish at holiday gatherings. Its versatility means it can easily be adapted to suit your preferences or whatever you have on hand.

“This salad has become a staple at our family reunions! It’s always a hit and pairs perfectly with every dish.” – Happy Home Cook

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (it’s a salad!)
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4

The Cooking Process Explained

Making this La Scala Chopped Salad is super simple and a lot of fun. Start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll finely chop the romaine lettuce, salami, and mozzarella, then rinse the chickpeas. While everything comes together, you’ll whisk up a quick dressing. It’s as easy as tossing everything in a bowl and letting the flavors meld.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• 2 heads romaine lettuce, finely chopped
• 1 cup finely chopped Genoa salami (or beef salami as a substitute)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Feel free to swap any ingredient to suit your taste or dietary needs. For instance, if you want to go meatless, leave out the salami or offer a tasty vegetarian alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by finely chopping the romaine lettuce, salami, and mozzarella.
2. Rinse and drain the chickpeas thoroughly.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper to create a flavor-packed dressing.
4. In a large salad bowl, combine all the chopped ingredients and chickpeas.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is nicely coated.
6. Let the salad sit for about 5–10 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.
7. Serve chilled, optionally topped with grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This salad shines on its own but pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a light white wine. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a crusty bread or with a side of roasted vegetables. Its crisp taste complements any summer barbecue and makes a lovely dish for picnics, too!

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Once you’ve made this salad, it’s best enjoyed fresh. But if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad can last for about 2-3 days. If you’re worried about sogginess, keep the dressing separate until serving.

Pro Chef Tips

1. Chill Your Ingredients: For an even fresher taste, chill your ingredients beforehand. This will enhance the salad’s crispness.
2. Dressing Variations: Try adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated cheese to the dressing for an extra flavor kick.
3. Prep Ahead: You can chop the veggies and prepare the dressing a day in advance, just store them separately to maintain freshness.

Creative Twists

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Consider adding:

• Diced avocados for creaminess.
• Chopped bell peppers for an extra crunchy bite.
• Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for more flavor.
• Substitute with turkey bacon or smoked chicken strips to give it a smoky flavor twist.

Enjoy diving into the vibrant world of this La Scala Chopped Salad! Your taste buds will thank you for it, whether it’s a cozy family meal or a festive gathering.