Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and refreshing salad that is perfect for any occasion, the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is just what you need! This vibrant dish blends crisp greens, hearty chickpeas, and creamy cheese, all tossed in a zesty dressing. It’s a favorite of mine because it’s not only easy to whip up but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re planning a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a family gathering, this salad fits right in.

What I love most about this salad is how it combines wholesome ingredients into one delightful bowl. You can enjoy it on its own as a satisfying main dish or serve it as a colorful side alongside your favorite protein. Trust me; once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This famous La Scala Chopped Salad takes just 20 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy days.
• Family-Friendly: With its mix of flavors and textures, everyone will find something to love in this salad!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients in advance and toss them together just before serving. Perfect for meal prep!
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or side, and pair it with various proteins or other dishes.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh veggies and protein-rich chickpeas, it’s a guilt-free choice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll be tossing together for your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad:

For the Dressing

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 Tablespoons apple 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 Italian turkey slices (thinly sliced)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Variations

One of the best things about this salad is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use grilled chicken or roasted vegetables instead of Italian turkey for a different twist.
• Add more crunch: Toss in some chopped cucumbers or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
• Go vegan: Omit the cheeses and turkey slices and add extra beans or avocado to keep it hearty.
• Change the greens: Experiment with kale or spinach if you’re craving something different.

How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by adding all of your dressing ingredients into a small bowl or jar. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined, or simply close the lid and shake! This step is important because the dressing is what brings all those flavors together beautifully.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine your shredded iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, chickpeas, Italian turkey slices, and mozzarella cheese. Pour the prepared dressing over the top and give everything a good toss to coat evenly. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 3: Serve It Up

Enjoy this La Scala salad recipe immediately while it’s fresh! If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to 1-2 days—but remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat again. This way, you maintain that delightful crunch!

Now that you’ve got all these tasty tips at your fingertips, I’m sure you’ll make this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe your new go-to dish!

Pro Tips for Making Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Making the perfect La Scala Chopped Salad is all about the details! Here are some helpful tips to elevate your salad game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs will make a world of difference in flavor. Opt for crisp iceberg and romaine lettuce, and don’t skip on rinsing your chickpeas—they’ll taste much better!

• Customize Your Proteins: While this recipe includes Italian turkey slices, feel free to swap in your favorite lean protein such as grilled chicken or even marinated tofu for a plant-based option. This flexibility keeps the dish exciting!

• Make It Ahead: The salad dressing can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. This not only saves you prep time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Toss Just Before Serving: To maintain the crunchiness of the lettuce and other components, toss your salad with the dressing right before serving. This keeps everything fresh and vibrant!

• Experiment with Add-Ins: Don’t hesitate to add more texture or flavor by incorporating ingredients like diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives. These additions can personalize your salad and create new flavor profiles.

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

This chopped salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for any occasion! Here are some fun ways to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of color and elevates the dish’s taste.
• Croutons: Homemade croutons made from whole-grain bread can add an extra crunch that complements the salad’s textures.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows everyone to squeeze fresh juice over their salads for an added zing.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: A colorful medley of seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus pairs wonderfully with this salad and brings a smoky flavor.
• Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain dish is rich in protein and fiber, making it an excellent complement to your salad while adding heartiness to your meal.
• Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crunchy pita chips provides a satisfying snack that balances out the freshness of the salad.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with the savory elements of the chopped salad, creating a delightful harmony on your plate.

By following these tips and pairing suggestions, your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad will shine at any meal! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week, making it a convenient and delicious option.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate to maintain the freshness of the salad ingredients.
• Consume within 1-2 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the texture of fresh vegetables.
• Instead, prepare components separately (like chickpeas and turkey) and freeze them if desired.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s best enjoyed cold.
• If you must warm up any components, do so gently on the stove or microwave before adding them back to the salad.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful dish!

Can I make the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the Italian turkey slices or substitute them with your favorite plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.

How long can I store the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe in the fridge?

You can store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy!

What can I use instead of Pecorino Romano cheese?

If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute Pecorino Romano with grated parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Can I add other ingredients to this salad?

Definitely! Feel free to customize your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe by adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers based on your preferences.

What makes this salad perfect for meal prep?

This salad is versatile, easy to assemble, and remains fresh for several days when stored properly. It’s perfect for busy weekdays!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe at home. It’s not only vibrant and nutritious but also incredibly satisfying as a main dish or side. Enjoy experimenting with your own twist on this classic recipe, and share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!