Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Introduction

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines fresh romaine, savory salami, and creamy mozzarella with a zesty dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful side, this salad balances textures and flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

• 2 heads romaine lettuce, finely chopped
• 1 cup finely chopped Genoa salami
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Finely chop the romaine lettuce, Genoa salami, and shredded mozzarella.
2. Step 2: Rinse and drain the chickpeas thoroughly.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
4. Step 4: Combine all the chopped ingredients and chickpeas in a large salad bowl.
5. Step 5: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
6. Step 6: Let the salad sit for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Step 7: Serve chilled, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of shredded mozzarella for a sharper taste.
• Add chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra freshness.
• Substitute red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a sweeter dressing.
• Serve with crusty bread to make a more filling meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because this salad is dressed, the lettuce may soften over time. For best texture, toss gently before serving or add extra fresh lettuce when serving again. It’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the salad and dressing separate if you plan to store it overnight. Combine them just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Romaine is preferred for its crunch and flavor, but you can substitute with iceberg or a mix of leafy greens if desired.

Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 66 reviews

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a vibrant and hearty Italian-American dish that combines crisp romaine lettuce, savory Genoa salami, creamy mozzarella, and protein-packed chickpeas. Tossed in a zesty red wine vinegar and olive oil dressing with Dijon mustard and oregano, this salad offers a perfect balance of fresh textures and bold flavors, making it an ideal appetizer or light meal.

• Author: Naya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 2 heads romaine lettuce, finely chopped
• 1 cup finely chopped Genoa salami
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained

Dressing Ingredients

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Chop the Produce and Meats: Finely chop the romaine lettuce, Genoa salami, and shred the mozzarella cheese to prepare the base ingredients for the salad.
2. Prepare Chickpeas: Rinse and drain the canned chickpeas thoroughly to remove excess sodium and liquid.
3. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until emulsified, creating a tangy and flavorful dressing.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped romaine, salami, shredded mozzarella, and chickpeas into a large salad bowl, mixing them evenly.
5. Toss with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Let Salad Marinate: Allow the salad to sit for 5 to 10 minutes so the flavors can meld and the dressing can soak into the ingredients.
7. Serve: Serve the salad chilled. Optionally, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness and flavor.

Notes

• For a vegetarian option, omit the Genoa salami or substitute with a plant-based salami alternative.
• Chilling the salad before serving enhances the flavor infusion.
• This salad keeps well for a day if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator but is best enjoyed fresh.
• You can add other Italian-inspired ingredients such as diced tomatoes or pepperoncini peppers for variation.
• Adjust salt and pepper in the dressing according to your taste preferences.

Keywords: La Scala Chopped Salad, Italian salad, chopped salad recipe, Genoa salami salad, easy Italian salad, healthy salad recipes, no-cook salad