Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a refreshing and hearty dish that’s both satisfying and simple, you’ve come to the right place! This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is near and dear to my heart. It combines vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or as a delightful side with your favorite protein, this salad never disappoints.

I love how quickly this salad comes together—just toss everything in a bowl, and you’re good to go! It’s an excellent option for meal prep too; just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to dig in. Seriously, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become such a beloved recipe in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad without any hassle.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the crunchy textures and tasty flavors. It’s a hit at any table!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies, lean protein, and wholesome fats, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients ahead of time for easy assembly during your busy week.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! This recipe calls for fresh produce and pantry staples that come together beautifully. Here’s 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

One of the best things about this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Swap the protein: If turkey isn’t your thing, try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian twist.
• Add more crunch: Toss in some sunflower seeds or nuts like walnuts for an extra layer of texture.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Mix in seasonal veggies: Consider adding diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes to boost freshness and color.

How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by combining all of your dressing ingredients in a small bowl or jar. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. If using a jar, simply close the lid tightly and shake! This step is crucial because a good dressing enhances every bite of 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 your freshly made dressing over top. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly so that each ingredient gets coated in that delicious dressing. The combination of flavors really brings this salad to life!

Step 3: Serve Fresh

Enjoy this La Scala salad right away for the best flavor and texture. If you have leftovers, no worries! Just store them in the fridge for 1-2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness when preparing in advance.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this delightful dish! Trust me; once you make it once, you’ll want to keep coming back to this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe again and again!

Pro Tips for Making Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Making the perfect La Scala Chopped Salad is all about fresh ingredients and a well-balanced dressing. Here are some tips to help you craft a delicious salad every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce not only enhances flavor but also adds vibrant colors to your salad, making it more appealing.
• Chill Your Ingredients: If possible, chill your lettuce and other ingredients before assembling the salad. This keeps everything crisp and refreshing.
• Adjust the Dressing to Taste: Feel free to tweak the dressing by adding more or less garlic or mustard according to your preference. Personalizing it will make the dish even more enjoyable.
• Mix in Extra Veggies: Consider adding diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and flavor. These additions can elevate the freshness of your salad.
• Make It Ahead: Preparing the salad dressing in advance allows flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to store it separately from the greens until you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

This salad is as versatile as it is delicious! It can stand alone as a main dish or be served alongside your favorite proteins for a well-rounded meal. Here’s how you can present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or basil on top before serving for an aromatic touch that brightens up the salad.
• Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest adds a zesty finish that complements the flavors of the salad perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Breast: A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with lemon and herbs pairs wonderfully as a protein option alongside this refreshing salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with vegetables not only complements the texture but also adds heartiness, making for a fulfilling meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots offer a warm side that contrasts nicely with the chilled salad.
• Hummus with Pita Chips: Serve up some creamy hummus with crunchy pita chips for an easy appetizer that guests will love while they enjoy their salads!

Now that you have all these serving suggestions and pro tips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and whip up this delightful Famous La Scala Chopped Salad! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and have a delicious, healthy meal ready whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Enjoy within 1-2 days for the best freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain crispness.

Freezing

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not suitable for freezing due to the ingredients’ textures.
• However, you can freeze individual components like chickpeas or cheese if needed.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad, as it is best served cold.
• If you’ve stored any of the components separately, simply assemble them again with fresh dressing before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe that might help you along your cooking journey!

Can I customize the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! This salad is highly versatile. You can add different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Try adding bell peppers, cucumbers, or even grilled chicken for variation!

How long does the dressing last?

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

What makes this salad a healthy choice?

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is loaded with fresh veggies, protein-rich chickpeas, and heart-healthy olive oil. It’s a balanced option for a nutritious meal.

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes! While Pecorino Romano and mozzarella are traditional, feel free to swap them with any other cheese you enjoy, like feta or goat cheese.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad as much as I do! It’s not just an easy dish; it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether it’s for a casual lunch or a dinner side, this salad surely impresses. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share how yours turned out!