Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a vibrant and refreshing salad that’s perfect for any occasion, then you’re in for a treat with this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe! This dish has a special place in my heart because it combines simplicity with bold flavors. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, this salad is sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that make eating healthy feel delightful!

What I love most about this salad is how easy it is to make. You can enjoy it on its own as a filling meal or pair it with your favorite protein for an even heartier dish. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious salad ready to go!
• Family-Friendly: This salad is loved by kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family meals.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it separately for quick assembly later.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of fresh ingredients and zesty dressing will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side with any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Famous La Scala Chopped Salad! These are easy to find and come together beautifully to create that delicious flavor we all crave.

For the Dressing

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 Tablespoons apple cider 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 (4 ounces) Italian turkey slices (thinly sliced)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Variations

The beauty of this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and customize it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken or tofu instead of Italian turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and color.
• Go vegan: Omit the cheese and replace the turkey with chickpeas or roasted vegetables for a plant-based version.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing if you enjoy a little heat!

How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine all of the dressing ingredients: olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined. If you’re using a jar, just close the lid tightly and shake! This step is crucial because the dressing adds all that zesty flavor to your salad.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, add your shredded iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, chickpeas, Italian turkey slices, and mozzarella cheese. Pour that delicious dressing over everything. Now comes the fun part—tossing! Gently combine all the ingredients until they’re well coated. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!

This La Scala salad recipe is best enjoyed right away while it’s fresh and crisp. If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. Just remember to keep any extra dressing separate until you’re ready to dig in again!

Now grab your fork and dig into this delightful salad that’s as satisfying as it is tasty!

Pro Tips for Making Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Creating a delicious chopped salad at home is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your La Scala salad turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor and texture of your salad, making it more enjoyable and nutritious.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a tastier dish.
• Customize your toppings: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Options like diced cucumbers or bell peppers can add a refreshing crunch.
• Make the dressing in advance: Preparing the dressing ahead of time not only saves you time on busy days but also allows the flavors to develop even further.
• Toss gently: When combining all the ingredients, toss them gently to avoid bruising the delicate greens and maintain their crispness.

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Serving this vibrant salad is just as fun as making it! With its colorful presentation and bold flavors, it can easily take center stage at any meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or basil on top adds a burst of flavor and visual appeal.
• Croutons: A handful of homemade or store-bought croutons provides a delightful crunch that complements the tender veggies.
• Lemon wedges: Serving with lemon wedges gives guests an option to squeeze fresh juice over their salad for an extra zing.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs makes for a perfect protein-packed companion to this light salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf with veggies is a great side that adds heartiness while keeping things healthy and flavorful.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds warmth and complements the freshness of the salad beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread slices provide a satisfying contrast to the crisp textures of the salad, making it a comforting addition.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad! Whether it’s for dinner or lunch, this vibrant dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch ahead of time, making it a convenient and healthy option for busy weeks.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days.
• Keep the salad dressing in a separate container to maintain the freshness of the greens.

Freezing

• Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well due to the fresh ingredients and textures.
• It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare individual components (like chickpeas or turkey slices) and freeze them separately if needed.

Reheating

• The salad is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat.
• If you prefer warm ingredients, like turkey slices, quickly heat them in a skillet before adding them to your salad.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe that might help you out!

Can I customize the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as cucumbers or bell peppers. You can also swap the cheese for a dairy-free option if desired.

How long does the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad last?

The salad will stay fresh for up to 1-2 days when stored properly in the fridge, but it’s best consumed immediately after preparation for optimal flavor and crunch.

What can I serve with this salad?

This salad works wonderfully on its own or as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or any other protein of your choice. It’s versatile and pairs well with many dishes!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad as much as I do! It’s a delightful mix of flavors and textures that brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or alongside your favorite dinner, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!