This fresh and colorful chopped salad is loaded with crunchy veggies, tangy cheese, and tasty dressing. Each bite is a delight of flavors and textures.
I love how easy it is to toss together, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a fancy dinner. You can even have fun adding your favorite ingredients—like extra olives or a sprinkle of nuts!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce: This leafy green forms the base of the salad. You can use iceberg for extra crunch or even kale for more nutritional value. Just remember to chop it into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
Radicchio: Adds a touch of bitterness and color. If you can’t find it, arugula or endive are good alternatives that still bring some peppery notes. Even finely chopped green cabbage works in a pinch!
Chickpeas: These bring protein and texture. You can swap them for other beans like black beans or kidney beans if you prefer. For a lighter salad, just skip them altogether.
Salami: Provides a savory element. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken breast can work well. For a vegetarian twist, try marinated artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives the best flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
How Do I Make the Dressing Perfectly Balanced?
Creating a well-balanced dressing is essential for a salad. To achieve this, you’ll want a good balance of oil, acid, and seasoning. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with more oil and slowly add vinegar or lemon juice until you’re happy with the tanginess.
- Mix in Dijon mustard—it enhances flavors and helps emulsify the dressing.
- Taste as you go! Add salt, pepper, and oregano. Adjust based on your liking.
Once satisfied, pour over the salad just before serving to keep everything crisp. Remember, it’s easier to add more dressing than to take some away!
Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 medium head of romaine lettuce, finely chopped or shredded
- 1 cup shredded radicchio or chicory (optional for slight bitterness)
- 1/2 cup chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup sliced or julienned salami strips
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion or shallots
- 1/4 cup pitted black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup diced cucumber (optional)
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced or pressed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15-20 minutes to prepare this delicious salad. This includes chopping the veggies, preparing the dressing, and tossing everything together. If you want the flavors to meld a bit, consider letting it sit for about 10 minutes after mixing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lettuce:
Start by washing your romaine lettuce thoroughly. Then, finely chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. If you’re using radicchio or chicory, add it now for a lovely peppery touch.
2. Add the Main Ingredients:
In the bowl, mix in the drained chickpeas, sliced salami strips, sliced black olives, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. These ingredients add a wonderful variety of flavors and textures, making your salad delicious!
3. Toss in Extra Veggies:
If you choose to use cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion, now’s the time to add them! These adds freshness and crunch, elevating your salad even more. Give everything a gentle toss to combine.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk well until everything is fully combined and emulsified.
5. Combine the Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything together until all the salad ingredients are well coated in that tasty dressing.
6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste your salad. You can add more salt, pepper, or vinegar according to your taste preferences. It’s all about making it perfect for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your La Scala Chopped Salad immediately for the best experience! It can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it versatile for any meal.
Enjoy this vibrant salad full of fresh textures, savory ingredients, and a delicious dressing that speaks to the heart of classic Italian flavors. Bon appétit!
FAQ About Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Lettuce?
Absolutely! While romaine is traditional, you can substitute it with iceberg for extra crunch or even spinach for a more nutrient-dense option. Just make sure whatever you use is finely chopped!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this a vegetarian dish, simply omit the salami and consider adding more protein-rich ingredients like additional chickpeas, diced avocado, or some roasted nuts for added crunch and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the salad is best enjoyed fresh, so keep the dressing separate and mix it in just before serving if you plan to store it.
Can I Prepare the Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can chop the vegetables and prepare the dressing in advance. Just keep everything in separate containers in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to serve for the freshest taste and texture.
