Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience! With its crisp textures and zesty flavors, this salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. The combination of fresh ingredients like lettuce, chickpeas, and Italian salami makes it stand out. Plus, the tangy Pecorino Romano dressing adds a unique twist that elevates this dish to new heights.

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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
• With Grilled Proteins
• At Potlucks and Picnics
• As a Side Dish
• In Meal Prep Containers
• 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
• How long does Famous La Scala Chopped Salad last?
• Can I customize my Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?
• Is Famous La Scala Chopped Salad healthy?
• What should I serve with Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad can be assembled in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The mix of fresh vegetables, protein-packed chickpeas, and savory salami creates a satisfying flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish alongside your favorite protein.
• Make Ahead Option: The salad can be prepped in advance; simply store the dressing separately to keep it fresh until serving.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients and low in calories per serving, it’s perfect for clean eating enthusiasts.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or jar with lid
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Whisk or jar with lid: Whisking helps emulsify the dressing quickly; using a jar allows for easy storage.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise slicing of salami and chopping of vegetables.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertop while providing a stable surface for cutting.

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 extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
2. Whisk together until fully combined. If using a jar, close the lid tightly and shake well.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add the shredded iceberg lettuce, shredded romaine lettuce, drained and rinsed chickpeas, thinly sliced Italian salami, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
2. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.

Step 3: Toss and Serve

Gently toss all ingredients together:
1. Ensure that every element is evenly coated with dressing.
2. Serve immediately for optimal freshness and enjoy!

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings any day of the week!

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a versatile dish perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual lunch, this salad can be served in multiple delightful ways.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it as the star of your meal with crusty bread on the side for a complete dining experience.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair it with grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for a protein-packed feast that complements the salad’s flavors.

At Potlucks and Picnics

• This salad travels well and can be enjoyed cold, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or outdoor events.

As a Side Dish

• It works beautifully alongside pasta dishes or Italian entrees, adding freshness to your plate.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Divide portions into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

How to Perfect Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad, follow these helpful tips.

• Chill Ingredients: Keep your ingredients cold for a refreshing bite. Refrigerate the lettuce and dressing before assembling.
• Use Fresh Produce: Opt for fresh, crisp vegetables to enhance the salad’s taste and crunchiness.
• Customize Ingredients: Feel free to add other favorites like olives or peppers for additional flavor and variety.
• Dress Just Before Serving: To maintain crispness, only dress the salad right before serving.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste before serving; you may want to add more seasoning or cheese based on your preference.

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Best Side Dishes for Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

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

1. Garlic Bread: A classic option that adds warmth and buttery goodness to your meal.
2. Caprese Skewers: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze create a vibrant appetizer.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil gives an Italian twist that harmonizes with the salad.
4. Stuffed Peppers: These colorful veggies filled with grains or meats provide a hearty contrast to the light salad.
5. Pasta Primavera: A light vegetable pasta dish enhances your meal while keeping it healthy and colorful.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal veggies add depth of flavor and pair nicely with the salad’s freshness.
7. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers variety; serve it alongside crackers for an engaging appetizer.
8. Antipasto Platter: This assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables complements the Italian theme beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the Dressing: Not making the dressing fresh can dull the salad’s flavor. Always whisk or shake it right before serving for the best taste.
• Using Wrong Lettuce: Using lettuce that isn’t fresh can ruin the texture. Stick with crisp iceberg and romaine for that perfect crunch.
• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a little, toss, and add more if needed.
• Ignoring Salami Quality: Opting for low-quality salami can affect overall taste. Choose authentic Italian salami for a rich flavor.
• Making it Too Early: Preparing the salad too far in advance can lead to wilting. Assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• item Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crispness.

Freezing Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

• item Freezing is not recommended due to ingredients like lettuce and cheese that don’t thaw well.

Reheating Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

• Oven: Not suitable as this salad is best served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid using a microwave, as it will wilt the greens.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; this salad should be enjoyed chilled.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Famous La Scala Chopped Salad last?

The salad lasts about 1-2 days in the refrigerator when stored properly. Use an airtight container for best results.

Can I customize my Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?

Absolutely! You can add or substitute various ingredients such as bell peppers, olives, or other protein sources according to your taste.

Is Famous La Scala Chopped Salad healthy?

Yes! This salad is packed with vegetables and protein, making it a healthy choice for lunch or dinner.

What should I serve with Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a side dish for pasta dishes.

Final Thoughts

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that makes it perfect as a main dish or side. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different ingredients, catering to your preferences and dietary needs. Try this refreshing salad for your next meal!