Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a vibrant mix of fresh ingredients that brings the tastes of Italy to your table. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish for gatherings, this salad combines crunchy lettuces, protein-packed chickpeas, and savory Italian salami, all dressed in a zesty Pecorino Romano dressing. It’s not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Dressing
• For the Salad
• For Garnish
• How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
• Step 1: Make the Dressing
• Step 2: Assemble the Salad
• Step 3: Toss and Serve
• How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
• As a Main Dish
• As a Side Dish
• In a Wrap
• For Meal Prep
• How to Perfect Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
• Best Side Dishes for Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
• Reheating Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is a Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?
• Can I customize the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?
• How do I store leftovers of Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?
• Is Famous La Scala Chopped Salad healthy?
• Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of crisp lettuces, flavorful salami, and tangy cheese makes each bite delightful.
• Quick Preparation: With just a few steps and minimal cooking time, you can have this salad ready in about 20 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main meal or serve it as a side with your favorite protein; it pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dressing and salad separately, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious vegetables and protein, this salad is both satisfying and wholesome.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad efficiently, gather the necessary tools before you start. These will help streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Small bowl or jar (for dressing)
• Whisk or jar lid for shaking
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine salad ingredients easily without spilling.
• Small bowl or jar: Ideal for mixing the dressing; using a jar lets you shake ingredients together quickly.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing salami and chopping vegetables.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping.

Ingredients

For the Dressing

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard (or 1 teaspoon dry mustard)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• ⅓ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or Parmesan cheese)

For the Salad

• 1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded (5-6 cups)
• 1 head romaine lettuce, shredded (4-5 cups)
• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• ¼ lb (4 ounces) Italian salami, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar:
1. Combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, and grated Pecorino Romano cheese.
2. Whisk together until well combined or seal the jar and shake vigorously.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add shredded iceberg lettuce and romaine lettuce.
2. Include drained chickpeas and thinly sliced Italian salami.
3. Sprinkle in shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 3: Toss and Serve

1. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture.
2. Gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with dressing.
3. Serve immediately for freshness and enjoy!

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

Serving the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a delightful experience that can be tailored to various occasions. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive dinner, this salad brings freshness and flavor to your table.

As a Main Dish

• Perfect for lunch: Enjoy a generous bowl of salad as your main meal. It’s filling and nutritious.
• Pair with grilled chicken: Add slices of grilled chicken breast on top for extra protein.

As a Side Dish

• Accompany with pasta: This salad complements any Italian pasta dish perfectly, balancing flavors.
• Serve with steak: The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of grilled or roasted meats.

In a Wrap

• Create a wrap: Use a tortilla to wrap the salad ingredients for an easy, portable meal.
• Add extra toppings: Consider adding avocado or hot sauce for added flavor in your wrap.

For Meal Prep

• Pack for lunches: Divide into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week.
• Keep dressing separate: Store the dressing in a small container to maintain freshness until serving.

How to Perfect Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

To achieve the best version of Famous La Scala Chopped Salad, pay attention to these helpful tips. They ensure maximum flavor and texture in every bite.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes to enhance the overall taste.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate the assembled salad for about 15-30 minutes before serving for optimal crispness.
• Customize your toppings: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers according to your preference.
• Make it vegan: Substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese and skip salami for a plant-based option.
• Adjust dressing to taste: Modify the amount of vinegar or cheese based on your personal preference for tanginess or creaminess.

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Best Side Dishes for Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
2. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers add an elegant touch.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth and additional nutrients alongside the salad.
4. Italian Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, bruschetta enhances the Italian theme of your meal.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives creates a delightful starter before the main event.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the chopped salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad, a few common mistakes can hinder its deliciousness. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong salami: It’s crucial to choose Italian salami instead of standard deli meat. The unique flavors of Italian salami elevate this salad significantly.
• Skipping the dressing: Many people overlook the importance of a good dressing. Not using the homemade Pecorino Romano dressing will result in a bland salad. Always prepare and mix it fresh!
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make your salad soggy. Start with a little and add more as needed, tossing gently.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using wilted or old lettuce can ruin the texture and taste. Always use fresh, crisp greens for that perfect crunch.
• Cutting ingredients unevenly: Chopping ingredients into inconsistent sizes makes for an unappealing presentation and uneven flavor distribution. Aim for uniform pieces for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crunchiness.

Freezing Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

• Not recommended: This salad does not freeze well due to its fresh ingredients, particularly lettuce and mozzarella.

Reheating Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

• Oven: Not suitable for reheating; best enjoyed cold.
• Microwave: Avoid microwaving as it can wilt the lettuce.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; this is a cold salad meant to be served fresh.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that blends fresh lettuces, chickpeas, mozzarella, and Italian salami with a tangy Pecorino Romano dressing.

Can I customize the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?

Yes! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers or substitute proteins like grilled chicken or turkey for a different twist.

How do I store leftovers of Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days while keeping the dressing separate until serving time.

Is Famous La Scala Chopped Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is packed with protein from chickpeas and mozzarella, plus vitamins from fresh veggies, making it a nutritious option.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using.

Final Thoughts

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is not just tasty but also extremely versatile. It shines as a main dish or as a side paired with your favorite protein. Feel free to customize it with your preferred ingredients for added flair!

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