Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a salad that’s as vibrant and delicious as it is easy to make, you’ve come to the right place! This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe has been a cherished favorite in my home for years. It’s the kind of dish that can brighten up a busy weeknight dinner or impress your friends at a weekend gathering. With its colorful ingredients and zesty dressing, it’s perfect whether you’re enjoying it on its own or pairing it with your favorite protein.

What makes this salad so special is its delightful crunch and fresh flavors. Each bite feels like a celebration, and trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes! Perfect for those who want something quick yet satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the crunchy veggies and creamy cheese, making it a hit at family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it separately. Just toss everything together when you’re ready to eat!
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a refreshing side. It pairs well with any meal!
• Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this salad is not only tasty but also good for you!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is super easy, thanks to its simple and wholesome ingredients. Gather these items to create a salad that’s bursting with flavor:

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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken or tofu instead of Italian turkey slices for a different twist.
• Add extra veggies: Throw in diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even some cherry tomatoes for added color and crunch.
• Change up the cheese: If you’re not a fan of Pecorino Romano, feta or goat cheese would add a lovely creamy flavor.
• Make it vegan: Omit the cheese and replace the turkey with roasted chickpeas or lentils for a hearty plant-based option.

How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by mixing all of your dressing ingredients in a small bowl or jar. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined, or simply secure the lid on your jar and give it a good shake! This step is essential because it ensures that every ingredient melds together beautifully, creating that tangy flavor we all crave.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your shredded iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, chickpeas, Italian turkey slices, and mozzarella cheese. Pour the prepared dressing over this colorful mixture. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure each bite is coated in that delicious dressing.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!

This La Scala salad recipe shines when served fresh! Enjoy it immediately for the best texture. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. Just remember to keep any extra dressing separate until you’re ready to serve again!

With this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe at your fingertips, healthy eating has never been so enjoyable!

Pro Tips for Making Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

This salad is not only delicious but also super versatile, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate it to perfection!

• Prep the Veggies Ahead: Chopping your veggies in advance allows for quicker assembly during busy weeknights. Keeping them fresh in the fridge ensures easy access when you’re ready to whip up this delightful salad.

• Customize Your Proteins: Feel free to swap out the Italian turkey slices for grilled chicken or a plant-based alternative if you prefer. This flexibility keeps your meals exciting and caters to different dietary needs!

• Dress Just Before Serving: To keep the salad crisp and fresh, add the dressing just before serving. This prevents the lettuce from wilting and maintains that wonderful crunch.

• Experiment with Cheese: While Pecorino Romano is traditional, trying out different cheeses like crumbled feta or a dairy-free option can add unique flavors and textures to your salad.

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Serving this salad is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes. It’s perfect as a light main dish or as an accompaniment to your favorite proteins.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of color and enhances flavor.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes not only brighten up the dish but also add a juicy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful veggies grilled to perfection make a great side that complements the freshness of the salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A light and nutritious quinoa pilaf adds texture and makes for a hearty meal when paired with the salad.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft textures found in the La Scala salad.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes provides a comforting balance to this vibrant salad, making it a well-rounded meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad will be both impressive and satisfying! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch and enjoy it for several days, making it an ideal choice for busy weeks.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well due to the fresh vegetables and cheese.
• It’s best enjoyed fresh, so only prepare what you plan to eat within a couple of days.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad as it’s best served cold or at room temperature.
• If you prefer your turkey slices warmed, you can microwave them separately before adding them to your salad.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe that might help you make this dish even better!

Can I customize the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers. You can also swap out proteins or cheeses based on what you have on hand.

How long does the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad last in the fridge?

This salad is best consumed within 1-2 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

What can I serve with Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a side dish for pasta. It’s versatile enough to complement many dishes!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe! Its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients create a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or pairing it with your favorite protein at dinner, this salad is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experiences!