Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly balances freshness and flavor? The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad has captured the hearts of salad lovers everywhere, offering a delightful medley of ingredients that come together in a vibrant mix. This crunchy salad not only satisfies your appetite but also provides a colorful explosion of flavors that can brighten any meal.

Moreover, this classic chopped salad is highly versatile, making it an ideal choice for lunch, dinner, or even a party appetizer. As you learn more about this beloved recipe, you’ll discover the secrets behind its irresistible charm. From crisp vegetables to zesty dressings, the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

The Story Behind a Classic:

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad has roots as rich as its delicious flavor. Originating from the La Scala restaurant in Beverly Hills, this salad has become synonymous with California cuisine. With an array of fresh ingredients including crisp lettuce, Italian salami, and a tangy dressing, it has captivated the hearts of food lovers everywhere.

What makes it truly special is not just the balance of textures and tastes but also the story behind its creation. Chef Nick Anderer aimed to create a salad that intertwined vibrant flavors with wholesome ingredients, catering to those seeking a healthy yet satisfying meal. Its popularity has sparked numerous adaptations, much like the Garden Pasta Salad that also embraces fresh produce and bold flavors.

Whether served as a main dish or a side, the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad continues to be a beloved staple that represents the essence of culinary collaboration.

Ingredients for Famous La Scala Chopped Salad:

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad bursts with flavors and textures, making it a favorite among salad enthusiasts. Here are the exact ingredients you’ll need:

Salad Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Main Salad Ingredients

3 cups iceberg lettuce, thinly shredded
1 cup romaine lettuce, thinly shredded
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
6 oz Italian salami, diced
1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese

To elevate your meal experience, consider pairing this chopped salad with a flavorful dressing, such as homemade BBQ sauce. Each ingredient harmonizes beautifully, ensuring every bite is delightful and satisfying. Enjoy recreating this iconic dish at home!

How to Prepare Famous La Scala Chopped Salad:

To make the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad, start by preparing the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. This mixture creates a zesty dressing that ties the salad together.

Next, for the salad base, finely shred 2 cups of iceberg lettuce and 2 cups of romaine lettuce for a refreshing crunch. Drain and rinse 1 can of chickpeas and add them for extra fiber. Now, chop the Italian salami into bite-sized pieces; look for dry-aged varieties to capture the authentic flavor. Incorporate fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded to add creaminess and depth.

Finally, toss everything in a large bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and mix until evenly coated. For a finishing touch, sprinkle grated Pecorino Romano cheese on top. This flavorful salad pairs beautifully with dishes like my Garden Pasta Salad or can serve as a perfect stand-alone meal.

For a deeper insight into this iconic salad, check out this comprehensive guide. Enjoy your creation!

Tips for the Perfect Famous La Scala Chopped Salad:

To create the ultimate Famous La Scala Chopped Salad, start with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Use a mix of crisp romaine and iceberg lettuce for a delightful crunch. Incorporate colorful vegetables like diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers to elevate both flavor and presentation. For added protein, consider diced ham or grilled chicken. Toss everything in a homemade vinaigrette for a burst of flavor.

Chopping the ingredients into bite-sized pieces is essential for the perfect texture. Ensure an even distribution of flavors in every bite. To enhance your salad experience, pair it with a side dish like Garden Pasta Salad, which offers a refreshing taste complement. Lastly, serve your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad chilled for the best taste and texture. Enjoy this vibrant dish as a satisfying lunch or a side for dinner!

Serving Suggestions:

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad shines as a vibrant starter or a satisfying main course. To elevate its appeal, pair this refreshing salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier dish. The combination of textures and flavors complements the crunchy vegetables beautifully. Additionally, serve it alongside homemade BBQ sauce for a delightful twist, enhancing the overall experience during summer gatherings.

To keep things interesting, consider offering a side of artisanal bread or cheesy jalapeño shortbread, which can add warmth and comfort to your meal. If you’re hosting a dinner party, this salad also makes a perfect accompaniment to a rich and flavorful Classic Marinara Sauce, providing a contrast that excites the palate. Remember, the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is versatile; it can easily transition from a side dish at a barbecue to the star of a lunch spread. Enjoy its vibrant taste and healthy components any time of year!

Storage Tips for Famous La Scala Chopped Salad:

To maintain the freshness of the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no more than 2-3 days. For best results, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This method not only preserves the crisp vegetables but also allows you to enjoy the full flavor. For a delicious side, try this Garden Pasta Salad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What ingredients are needed for the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?

The staple ingredients for this iconic chopped salad include fresh Romaine lettuce, garbanzo beans, hearts of palm, tomato, cucumber, and a mix of cheeses. The salad is often tossed in a tangy Italian dressing, enhancing its vibrant flavors and textures.

How can I customize the La Scala Chopped Salad?

You can easily adapt the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad to fit your preferences. Consider adding ingredients like grilled chicken, avocado, or even roasted red peppers for additional flavor. You may also swap out the dressing for your favorite vinaigrette to personalize the taste.

Is the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad healthy?

Yes, this salad is a healthy choice! Packed with fresh vegetables, it offers essential vitamins and minerals while being low in calories. Additionally, the inclusion of beans provides a good source of protein and fiber, making it a well-rounded meal option.

Can the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad be made in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Just remember to keep the dressing on the side until you are ready to serve, to maintain the freshness and crunchiness of the vegetables.

What pairs well with the La Scala Chopped Salad?

This delightful chopped salad pairs wonderfully with various dishes. For example, it complements grilled meats like chicken or steak beautifully. It can also be served as a refreshing side alongside hearty entrees such as BBQ ribs or Mediterranean grilled fish.

How can I make the salad more filling?

To turn the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad into a more substantial meal, consider adding some grains, such as quinoa or farro. You can also include proteins like chickpeas or diced turkey, making it a satisfying lunch or dinner option. For more inspiration on combining flavors, check out this Garden Pasta Salad for additional ideas.

Famous La Scala Chopped Salad: Fresh, Flavorful, and Fun

Total Time: 50
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a vibrant blend of fresh ingredients, perfect for a light meal or side dish. Loaded with textures and flavors from crisp greens, savory salami, and creamy cheese, it’s a salad you’ll want to enjoy again and again.

Ingredients

Olive oil

Red wine vinegar

Garlic

Dijon mustard

Kosher salt

Black pepper

Pecorino Romano cheese

Iceberg lettuce

Romaine lettuce

Chickpeas

Italian salami

Mozzarella cheese

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly shredded iceberg and romaine lettuce, chickpeas, diced Italian salami, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss well to combine, ensuring everything is coated evenly.
Sprinkle grated Pecorino Romano cheese on top and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

For added flavor, let the salad sit for about 10 minutes after mixing the dressing and before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Prep Time: 20
Cook Time: 30
Category: Dessert
Method: baking
Cuisine: American