Stepping into the vibrant world of Italian-American cuisine, I often find myself daydreaming of the famous La Scala Chopped Salad—a remarkable dish that transformed my approach to salads forever. This celebrity favorite is not only a feast for the eyes but also a quick culinary triumph that can be prepared in under 15 minutes. Imagine a symphony of crisp romaine, savory salami, and creamy mozzarella coming together in perfect harmony, making it a delightful option for busy weeknights or any gathering. Plus, it’s a make-ahead miracle—simply store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve. Ready to elevate your salad game and impress your guests? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and bring a taste of Beverly Hills to your table!
Why is La Scala Chopped Salad a Must-Try?
Quick Preparation: This salad takes just 15 minutes to whip up, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Celebrity-Approved: Beloved by famous figures, it brings a touch of glam to everyday meals.
Fresh & Flavorful: Crisp romaine combined with savory salami and creamy mozzarella creates a delightful burst of flavors.
Versatile Delight: Serve it as a stand-alone dish or pair with grilled meats for an unforgettable meal.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prep it in advance and store the dressing separately for maximum freshness—perfect for gatherings!
If you’re looking for other salad inspirations, consider checking out my Apple Feta Salad or Pomegranate Salad Honey.
La Scala Chopped Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Romaine Lettuce – Provides a fresh, crunchy base; consider using kale for added nutrition.
• Genoa Salami – Adds savory flavor and protein; prosciutto or turkey can lighten the dish.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Contributes creaminess; swap with feta for a tangy twist.
• Chickpeas – Offers bulk and nutty flavor; canned chickpeas can be rinsed to cut down sodium.
For the Dressing
• Olive Oil – Acts as the base for the vinaigrette and enhances flavors; use extra virgin for the best quality.
• Red Wine Vinegar – Adds acidity to the dressing; balsamic vinegar can provide a sweeter note instead.
• Dijon Mustard – Provides depth and a slight kick; honey mustard can add a touch of sweetness.
• Oregano, Salt, and Pepper – Essential seasonings that tie the salad together.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for La Scala Chopped Salad
Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Begin by washing 1 head of romaine lettuce thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat it dry with a clean towel, then finely chop the lettuce into uniform pieces, creating a crisp base for your La Scala Chopped Salad. Next, take 4 ounces of Genoa salami and dice it into small squares, and shred 4 ounces of mozzarella cheese, aiming for a consistent size to ensure even flavor distribution.
Step 2: Make Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, combine ⅓ cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, along with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk the mixture vigorously for about 30 seconds until it emulsifies and thickens slightly, promising a flavorful dressing for your salad.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce, diced salami, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Include 1 cup of rinsed and drained canned chickpeas for added protein and texture. Gently toss the ingredients together with clean hands or salad tongs, ensuring that every piece is well mixed and ready for the dressing.
Step 4: Dress Salad
Take the freshly whisked dressing and drizzle it over the salad mixture. Using salad tongs, toss the salad thoroughly for about 1-2 minutes, making sure the dressing coats every ingredient evenly. This is a crucial step as it harmonizes the flavors and prepares your La Scala Chopped Salad for serving.
Step 5: Let Sit
Allow the dressed salad to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period lets the ingredients mingle and enhances the flavors, creating a more cohesive dish. While resting, you can prepare your serving dishes or set the table, ensuring a delightful presentation for your guests.
La Scala Chopped Salad: Flavorful Twists
Embrace your creativity by customizing this delightful salad with some tasty variations!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute mozzarella with avocado or a nut-based cheese for a creamy, dairy-free option.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the salad for a heat that brings flavor excitement.
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Nutty Addition: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch and buttery flavor.
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Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley elevate the flavors, bringing a fragrant twist to each bite.
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Vegetable Medley: Incorporate diced bell peppers or zucchini for additional color, texture, and nutrients.
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Tangy Swap: Instead of red wine vinegar, try apple cider vinegar for a sweeter and fruitier dressing.
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Freshen Up: Mix in diced cucumbers or radishes for an extra crispy element that brightens the overall dish.
By trying these variations, you’ll be creating a diverse array of flavors and textures that keep every forkful exciting. If you’re on the lookout for more fresh ideas, consider diving into my recipe for a refreshing Cucumber Salad Sandwiches or a seasonal Mango Cucumber Salad—each offering its own twist on salad delight!
Make Ahead Options
These La Scala Chopped Salad components are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can finely chop the romaine lettuce, salami, and mozzarella up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent any sogginess. The dressing can also be prepared and kept separate—whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and seasonings a day ahead. Once you’re ready to serve, just combine everything in a large bowl, drizzle with the dressing, and toss. This way, you’ll have a fabulous, flavorful make-ahead dish that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made!
Expert Tips for La Scala Chopped Salad
• Chop Uniformly: Ensure all ingredients are chopped into even sizes for consistent flavor and texture in every bite.
• Freshness Counts: Use fresh salad ingredients to maximize flavor and crunch; avoid limp or wilted greens for the best La Scala Chopped Salad experience.
• Let It Marinate: Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes after dressing; this lets flavors meld beautifully, enhancing your dining experience.
• Store Separately: If preparing ahead, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve; this prevents sogginess and maintains ingredient freshness.
• Quality Oil: Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil in your dressing; it significantly impacts the salad’s overall taste.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go, and adjust seasoning gradually; it’s easier to add than to take away!
How to Store and Freeze La Scala Chopped Salad
Fridge: Store the La Scala Chopped Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness and crunch.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the salad up to a day in advance, but wait to combine it with the dressing until just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, the salad can sit out for up to 2 hours, but it’s best enjoyed chilled to preserve its crispness.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold; avoid reheating as it may wilt the greens and compromise the delightful textures.
What to Serve with La Scala Chopped Salad?
Elevate your dining experience with the perfect accompaniments that enhance the vibrant flavors of this refreshing salad.
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Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy and tender grilled chicken provides a protein boost while complementing the salad’s zesty dressing.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread pairs beautifully, offering a comforting crunch that balances the salad’s freshness.
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Caprese Skewers: These bite-sized delights of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add a fresh, juicy contrast, enhancing the Italian flair of your meal.
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Italian Pasta Salad: A side of chilled pasta salad brings additional textures and flavors, capturing the essence of Italian cuisine effortlessly.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing sparkling water garnished with lemon slices adds a fizzy brightness, cleansing the palate between bites.
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Tiramisu: End your meal with a creamy tiramisu, its coffee and cocoa flavors providing a rich, sweet finish that beautifully contrasts the salad’s lightness.
Each pairing not only enhances the La Scala Chopped Salad but also creates a delightful dining experience worth savoring.
La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe FAQs
What are the best ingredients to use for the freshest La Scala Chopped Salad?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, always choose the freshest romaine lettuce—look for vibrant green leaves without any brown spots or signs of wilting. For the salami, opt for Genoa salami for the traditional flavor, but if you’re seeking a lighter option, turkey or prosciutto works beautifully as substitutes. A good quality mozzarella, usually sold fresh, will add the creaminess that ties everything together.
How should I store leftovers of the La Scala Chopped Salad?
Very important! Store leftover La Scala Chopped Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can remain fresh for up to 24 hours. However, to maintain its texture and flavor, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This ensures that your greens stay crisp and the salad does not become soggy.
Can I freeze La Scala Chopped Salad?
Not really recommended! Salads with fresh ingredients like lettuce and mozzarella don’t freeze well due to changes in texture once thawed. If you do want to prep ahead of time, consider freezing only the chickpeas or salami separately. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, simply thaw them in the fridge before mixing all the fresh, non-frozen ingredients together.
What are some common troubleshooting tips if my salad turns out too salty or bland?
Don’t fret! If your La Scala Chopped Salad is too salty, try balancing it by adding more greens or unsalted ingredients, such as additional lettuce or mozzarella. In case it’s bland, sprinkle in more seasoning gradually, or squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice to lift the flavors. Always remember to taste as you mix; it’s easier to adjust flavors along the way!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with La Scala Chopped Salad?
Absolutely! For those with dairy allergies, substitute the mozzarella with a vegan cheese option or omit it altogether. If you’re sensitive to gluten, ensure that any packaged ingredients like salami and chickpeas are gluten-free. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to adapt it to suit various dietary needs or preferences—you can make it just as delicious regardless!
La Scala Chopped Salad: Fresh, Quick & Celebrity-Approved
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash the romaine lettuce and chop into uniform pieces.
- Dice the salami and shred the mozzarella cheese.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together oil, vinegar, mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- In a salad bowl, combine lettuce, salami, mozzarella, and chickpeas; gently toss.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat.
- Let the dressed salad sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
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