Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful salad that’s bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to make, you’ve come to the right place! The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe has been a favorite in my kitchen for years. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, yet satisfying. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or serve it alongside your favorite protein, this salad is always a hit at family gatherings and dinner parties.

What makes this recipe truly special is its fresh ingredients and vibrant taste. Plus, you can easily whip it up in just 20 minutes! Trust me, once you try this salad, it will become a staple on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes—perfect for those busy evenings!
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of crisp lettuce, creamy cheese, and zesty dressing makes each bite delightful.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the colorful ingredients and delicious taste.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep the dressing in advance for even quicker assembly later on.
• Versatile: Enjoy it alone or as a side; it pairs beautifully with any meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Each one contributes to the freshness and flavor of the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad. Let’s take a look at what you need:

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some great ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try adding grilled chicken or tofu instead of Italian turkey slices for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes for an extra crunch.
• Go dairy-free: Omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Change the greens: Experiment with other greens like spinach or kale for a unique flavor profile.

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 them together until well combined, or simply close the lid and shake! This step is important because it blends all those wonderful flavors together, creating a zesty dressing that will elevate your salad.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss in your shredded iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, chickpeas, Italian turkey slices, and mozzarella cheese. Pour that fabulous dressing over the top. Now comes the fun part—give everything a good toss! Mixing ensures that every bite is coated with that tasty dressing.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!

Enjoy your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad right away while it’s fresh and crisp! If you happen to have leftovers, store them in the fridge for 1-2 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate if you’re prepping ahead of time—it’ll keep everything nice and crunchy!

This salad is sure to become one of your go-to recipes. Happy eating!

Pro Tips for Making Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Making this salad is a breeze, but a few simple tips can elevate your experience!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce and high-quality cheese make all the difference in flavor. Opt for crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes to enhance the overall taste of your salad.

• Chill the salad: Allowing the salad to chill for about 30 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s a great way to refresh the dish on a warm day!

• Prep in advance: You can chop your vegetables and make the dressing ahead of time. This saves you effort on busy days and makes assembling the salad a quick task.

• Customize your proteins: If you’re looking for a different protein option, try substituting Italian turkey with grilled chicken or even adding avocado for a vegetarian twist. This keeps your meals exciting!

• Adjust dressings to taste: Feel free to tweak the dressing by adding more mustard or garlic according to your preference. Personalizing it ensures that every bite is just right for you!

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Serving this vibrant chopped salad can be as creative as you like! It’s perfect on its own or as a side, making it versatile enough for any meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds color and freshness, enhancing both the look and taste of your salad.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a squeeze of citrus, brightening up each bite with a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy grilled chicken is an excellent protein pairing that complements the freshness of the salad without overpowering it.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for a nutritious and filling side, providing an extra boost of fiber.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and depth to your meal while balancing out the crispness of the salad.
• Crusty Whole Wheat Bread: A slice of hearty whole wheat bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover dressing, making every bite delightful.

Enjoy creating this delicious Famous La Scala Chopped Salad at home! It’s not only packed with flavor but also brings a colorful presentation to your table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeks. Here’s how to properly store any leftovers or prepared ingredients.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 1-2 days for the best freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the salad from getting soggy.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing, as the textures of fresh vegetables do not hold up well once frozen.
• Instead, prepare the components separately. You can freeze ingredients like chickpeas and turkey slices for later use.

Reheating

• If you have leftover turkey slices, heat them gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave.
• Avoid reheating the entire salad; serve it cold for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

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

Can I make this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe without cheese?

Absolutely! You can omit the cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative such as nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

How long does the dressing last?

The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using!

Can I add other vegetables to this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe?

Yes, feel free to get creative! You can add chopped cucumbers, bell peppers, or even some cherry tomatoes for extra color and crunch.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free Dijon mustard and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What protein pairs well with this salad?

Grilled chicken or shrimp works wonderfully with this salad if you’re looking to add more protein to your meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe as much as I do! It’s vibrant, fresh, and incredibly satisfying on its own or alongside your favorite main dish. Whether you’re prepping it for lunch or dinner, it’s sure to impress at any gathering. Happy cooking, and may your meals always be delicious and full of flavor!