Name: La Scala Chopped Salad: Gourmet Flavor in Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 head Romaine Lettuce (Adds crunch and freshness; substitute with mixed greens for variation.); 6 oz Genoa Salami (Provides savory depth; can be replaced with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.); 8 oz Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Adds creaminess; use feta or goat cheese for a tangier flavor.); 1 can Chickpeas (Contributes protein and heartiness; can swap for kidney beans or black beans for a different profile.); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (Base of the dressing, adds healthy fats; you can use avocado oil for a mild flavor.); 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar (Offers acidity and tang; substitute with apple cider vinegar for a different taste.); 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard (Enhances flavor and acts as an emulsifier in the dressing; regular mustard can be used in a pinch.); 1 tsp Dried Oregano (Adds herbal notes; substitute with Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil for a twist.); to taste Salt (Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.); to taste Pepper (Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of fresh herbs wafted through the air, transporting me to the sun-soaked streets of Beverly Hills. The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad offers a vibrant medley of crisp romaine lettuce, savory salami, and hearty chickpeas, making it a timeless favorite that’s both quick to prepare and irresistibly satisfying. This no-cook wonder captures the essence of Mediterranean diets while being a true crowd-pleaser, whether for a leisurely lunch or a festive dinner gathering. In just 15 minutes, you can elevate your dining experience with this Hollywood classic that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. Are you ready to whip up your own taste of glamour?

Why is La Scala Chopped Salad a Must-Try?

Gourmet flavor in mere minutes: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can serve an elegant dish that impresses. No-cook convenience means minimal effort for maximum taste—ideal for busy weeknights. Versatile ingredients allow easy substitutions, whether you want a lighter protein or a different cheese. Crowd-pleaser attributes make it perfect for gatherings—watch as friends and family rave about this twist on a classic. Don’t forget to complement it with a vibrant side like a Pomegranate Salad Honey or a refreshing Cucumber Salad Sandwiches for a full Mediterranean experience!

La Scala Chopped Salad Ingredients

• Discover the perfect combination of flavors!

For the Salad

Romaine Lettuce – Adds crunch and freshness; substitute with mixed greens for variation.
Genoa Salami – Provides savory depth; can be replaced with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Adds creaminess; use feta or goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
Chickpeas – Contributes protein and heartiness; can swap for kidney beans or black beans for a different profile.

For the Dressing

Olive Oil – Base of the dressing, adds healthy fats; you can use avocado oil for a mild flavor.
Red Wine Vinegar – Offers acidity and tang; substitute with apple cider vinegar for a different taste.
Dijon Mustard – Enhances flavor and acts as an emulsifier in the dressing; regular mustard can be used in a pinch.
Oregano – Adds herbal notes; substitute with Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil for a twist.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.

Try these ingredients today to create your very own La Scala Chopped Salad!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for La Scala Chopped Salad

Step 1: Chop Ingredients
Begin by finely chopping the romaine lettuce, Genoa salami, shredded mozzarella, and chickpeas into uniform pieces, aiming for about 1/2-inch size to ensure a delightful texture in every bite. This step not only increases the overall aesthetic of your La Scala Chopped Salad but also ensures that all ingredients meld beautifully together when tossed.

Step 2: Prepare Dressing
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture vigorously for about 30 seconds until it’s well emulsified—this should result in a smooth, cohesive dressing that will enhance the flavors of your salad.

Step 3: Combine Salad
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the chopped romaine, salami, mozzarella, and chickpeas. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the top, aiming for even coverage. Using salad tongs or two forks, carefully combine everything until all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing, allowing the flavors of the La Scala Chopped Salad to infuse harmoniously.

Step 4: Rest
Let the tossed salad rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This brief pause allows the vibrant flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste profile of your La Scala Chopped Salad. During this time, you can set the table or prepare any additional sides for a complete meal.

Step 5: Serve
Once the flavors have melded, it’s time to serve! Scoop generous portions of the La Scala Chopped Salad into individual bowls or onto plates. If desired, add additional garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh herbs or grated cheese to elevate the presentation. Enjoy immediately, or store the components separately if you prefer to assemble it later.

Expert Tips for La Scala Chopped Salad

Uniform Chopping: Aim for evenly chopped ingredients to enhance the texture and appearance of your La Scala Chopped Salad. This uniformity helps all flavors blend beautifully.
Dressing Test: Before adding the dressing to the salad, taste it and adjust seasoning—adding a pinch more salt or a dash of vinegar can elevate the entire dish.
Refrigerate Resting Time: For even better flavor, consider allowing your salad to rest in the fridge for up to 30 minutes after mixing. This extra time lets the ingredients marinate and enhance their freshness.
Ingredient Freshness: Using the freshest ingredients, especially the romaine lettuce and herbs, can dramatically improve the overall taste of your La Scala Chopped Salad.
Save Storage Space: If making ahead, store the salad and dressing separately to keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess for up to 24 hours.
Vary the Greens: Feel free to experiment with greens, using arugula or spinach instead of romaine if you want to give your La Scala Chopped Salad a unique twist.

Make Ahead Options

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a fantastic meal prep option for busy home cooks! You can chop the romaine lettuce, salami, mozzarella, and chickpeas up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container to keep everything fresh and crisp. For optimal flavor, prepare the dressing (olive oil, vinegar, mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper) and refrigerate it separately—this prevents the greens from wilting. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the prepped ingredients with the dressing, allowing everything to come together for that signature taste. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality salad ready to enjoy in no time!

What to Serve with Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

Enhance your dining experience with vibrant accompaniments that complement the bold flavors of this timeless dish.

Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness pairs perfectly with the salad, adding rich flavors that contrast nicely with the fresh ingredients.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and smoky, these provide a heartier element, making your meal more substantial while enhancing Mediterranean flavors.
Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl: Nutty quinoa adds texture and makes for a filling side that echoes the heartiness of chickpeas in the salad.
Crispy Roasted Chickpeas: A delightful crunch that mirrors the salad’s texture while adding an extra protein punch—perfect for snacking as you enjoy your meal.
Tzatziki Sauce with Pita Chips: The refreshing yogurt and cucumber dip offer coolness, balancing the zest of the salad while pita chips provide a fun crunch.
Mint Lemonade: This refreshing drink beautifully complements the salad’s herbs, providing a sweet-tart note that keeps the flavor palette vibrant.

Feel free to mix and match these sides to create a memorable meal that’s as refreshing as it is satisfying!

La Scala Chopped Salad Variations

Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and explore delightful twists on the famous La Scala Chopped Salad!

Protein Swap: Substitute salami for grilled chicken or tofu to create a lighter, protein-rich option that’s just as satisfying.
Cheese Love: Replace mozzarella with feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. The sharp flavor will take your salad to new heights!
Bean Bonanza: Swap chickpeas with kidney beans or black beans for a different protein source that adds varied texture and taste.
Greens Galore: Don’t limit yourself to romaine! Mixed greens or arugula can give your salad a fresh, peppery edge.
Vinaigrette Variety: Try a balsamic vinaigrette instead of the classic dressing for an added sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory ingredients.
Herb Refresh: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley instead of oregano to bring a new aromatic dimension to your salad.
Sweet Heat: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or slices of jalapeño for a spicy kick! This will surely wake up your taste buds.
Fruity Flair: Toss in diced apples or pears for a burst of sweetness and crunch that perfectly balances the savory flavors. Compliment this sweet profile by serving it alongside a refreshing Honeycrisp Apple Feta Salad.

These variations not only keep things exciting but help tailor the salad to fit your dietary needs and flavor preferences!

Storage Tips for La Scala Chopped Salad

Fridge: Store the La Scala Chopped Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours to maintain freshness.

Dressing: Keep the dressing separate from the salad components until you’re ready to serve, helping prevent sogginess and preserving crunch.

Room Temperature: If left out, the salad should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours for food safety reasons.

Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold; however, if you have leftover chickpeas, you can briefly warm them in the microwave before adding to the salad for an extra touch of warmth.

La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe FAQs

What kind of romaine lettuce should I use for the La Scala Chopped Salad?
Absolutely! Look for romaine that’s fresh and crisp, avoiding any with dark spots or wilting leaves. The crunchiness of fresh romaine is key to a great salad! You can also opt for mixed greens for a slightly different flavor and texture.

How should I store leftovers of the La Scala Chopped Salad?
To maintain freshness, store the La Scala Chopped Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. It’s best to keep the dressing separate from the salad components until ready to serve. This prevents sogginess and ensures that everything remains crunchy and delicious!

Can I freeze the La Scala Chopped Salad?
While I wouldn’t recommend freezing the entire salad due to the vegetables losing their texture, you can freeze leftover chickpeas for up to 3 months. To do this, rinse and drain them, then spread on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. Just remember to add fresh ingredients when assembling your salad again!

What if I’m allergic to nuts or gluten?
Great question! The La Scala Chopped Salad is nut-free and gluten-free as it stands, but always check the labels of store-bought ingredients like salami or cheese to ensure they don’t contain any hidden gluten. If you have specific allergies, simply opt for alternatives like gluten-free salami or chickpeas.

How do I prevent my salad from becoming soggy?
Very! To avoid sogginess, make sure to do a few things: don’t dress the salad until you’re ready to serve, store the dressing separately, and pat your ingredients dry after washing. This keeps each component bright, fresh, and perfect for your La Scala Chopped Salad!

Can I prepare the La Scala Chopped Salad ahead of time?
You can definitely prepare the ingredients ahead of time! Chop the veggies and store them in the fridge for up to a day. Just remember to keep the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve, which prevents the salad from losing its crunch and staying fresh longer. Enjoy the gourmet flavor with minimal effort!