This hearty salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors. With creamy cheese, crispy lettuce, and tender chickpeas, it’s a balanced dish you can serve any day. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this salad is a family favorite that everyone will enjoy.

Why You Will Love This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

You will love this recipe because it’s easy to prepare with everyday ingredients. It takes just a few minutes to mix everything together, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for meal prep, this dish is versatile and satisfying. Plus, the flavors blend beautifully, creating a refreshing, tasty meal.

How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

Making this salad is a breeze. Start by whisking up the dressing in a small bowl. Then, combine the fresh ingredients in a large bowl, pour the dressing over, and toss it all together. It’s that simple!

What You Need

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 pepper
⅓ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or grated parmesan cheese)
1 head shredded iceberg lettuce (5-6 cups)
1 head shredded romaine lettuce (4-5 cups)
1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
¼ lb (4 ounces) Italian salami (thinly sliced)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Step-by-Step

Add all of the salad dressing ingredients to a small bowl or jar. Whisk everything together or close the lid and shake to combine.
In a large bowl, add the shredded iceberg, romaine lettuce, chickpeas, salami, and mozzarella cheese.
Pour the prepared dressing on top and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Enjoy this La Scala salad right away. Store leftovers in the fridge for 1-2 days, keeping the dressing separate for freshness.

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

This salad is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It pairs nicely with garlic bread or a light soup, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. You can also enjoy it as a refreshing lunch option.

How to Store Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

To keep your salad fresh, store any leftovers in the fridge in a tightly sealed container. It will last for up to 1-2 days. If you want to make it in advance, store the dressing separately. This way, you can shake it up right before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Recipe Tips

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste.
If you don’t like salami, try turkey or ham as a substitute.
Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but will stay good for a short time if stored properly.

Variations & Swaps

Add diced bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and color.
Swap out the chickpeas for black beans for a different flavor profile.
Use spinach or kale instead of romaine for a nutrient boost.
Make it vegetarian by omitting the salami.
Add avocado for a creamy texture that kids will love.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad ingredients and store them in the fridge for up to a day in advance. However, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the lettuce.

Can I freeze the salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this salad as the textures will change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

How should I reheat leftovers?
You don’t need to reheat the salad; it’s meant to be served cold. Just enjoy the leftovers straight from the fridge!

What can I substitute for the cheese?
If you’re looking for dairy-free options, you can try using a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

What are some common mistakes to avoid?
Be careful not to overdress the salad. Start with a little and add more if needed. Keep the dressing separate until serving to prevent soggy lettuce.