If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion, you’ll absolutely love this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe! This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights or family gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves the table feeling satisfied and happy. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a staple in my kitchen!

Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or served alongside your favorite protein, this salad is versatile enough to fit any meal. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become such a beloved classic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can serve up this delicious salad without breaking a sweat.
Family-Friendly: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this salad is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dressing and chop the veggies ahead of time for quick assembly later in the week.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh greens, creamy cheese, and zesty dressing creates a taste sensation that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is simple and fun! You’ll find that these wholesome components come together beautifully to create a colorful and nutritious dish.

For the Dressing

⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 Tablespoons apple vinegar
2 cloves garlic (minced)
3 teaspoons Dijon mustard (or 1 teaspoon dry mustard)
½ teaspoon kosher salt and pepper

For the Salad

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

Variations

One of the best things about this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand.

Swap the protein: Feel free to use grilled chicken, tofu, or even leave out the meat altogether for a lighter option!
Add some crunch: Toss in some nuts like walnuts or almonds for an extra layer of texture.
Mix up the greens: If you don’t have iceberg or romaine on hand, try using spinach or arugula instead!
Extra veggies: Add diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to boost flavor and nutrition.

How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by adding all of your dressing ingredients into a small bowl or jar. Whisking them together will create a smooth and tangy dressing that perfectly complements the fresh ingredients in your salad. If you’re short on time, just close the lid on your jar and give it a good shake—easy peasy!

Step 2: Combine Your Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded iceberg and romaine lettuces with drained chickpeas, thinly sliced Italian turkey, and mozzarella cheese. Pour the prepared dressing over everything and give it a gentle toss until all those delicious flavors are evenly distributed. This step is key because every bite should be bursting with flavor!

Step 3: Serve It Up!

Enjoy this refreshing La Scala salad recipe right away! If you happen to have leftovers (which I doubt!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate if you’re prepping in advance; it keeps everything nice and crisp until you’re ready to dig in.

Now you’ve got yourself a delightful salad that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious! Enjoy sharing this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe with friends and family—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table too!

Pro Tips for Making Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Making this chopped salad is a breeze, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables make all the difference in flavor and texture. Opt for crisp, vibrant lettuce and ripe tomatoes to ensure your salad bursts with freshness.
Customize Your Proteins: Feel free to substitute the Italian turkey slices with grilled chicken or plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh. This flexibility allows you to cater to different dietary preferences while keeping the salad hearty.
Make Ahead for Flavor: If time allows, prepare the dressing and chop your veggies a few hours in advance. This gives the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully, enhancing your salad’s overall taste.
Add Crunchy Elements: Include nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds or slivered almonds for an added crunch. This not only enhances texture but also boosts the nutritional value of your salad.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Start with less salt and pepper in the dressing, then taste before adjusting. This way, you can create a perfect balance that suits your preference.

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

This La Scala Chopped Salad is not just a dish; it’s a colorful centerpiece for any meal! Whether you enjoy it as a main course or as a refreshing side, presentation can really enhance its appeal.

Garnishes

Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or basil on top for an aromatic finish that brightens each bite.
Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side so guests can squeeze fresh juice over their salads, adding a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed in olive oil and grilled to perfection complement the freshness of the salad.
Quinoa Pilaf: A warm quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs provides a nutty flavor and makes for a filling addition alongside your salad.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread can be a delightful option that adds warmth and comfort, perfect for soaking up any extra dressing left on your plate.
Roasted Chickpeas: Crispy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices offer an additional crunch while keeping things light and healthy—great for snacking alongside the salad!

Enjoy creating this famous La Scala Chopped Salad at home; it’s bound to impress family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
Keep the dressing separate to maintain the salad’s crispness.

Freezing

It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it may affect the texture of the vegetables and cheese.
However, if you need to store components like chickpeas or turkey slices, they can be frozen separately.

Reheating

Enjoy this salad cold; there is no need to reheat.
If you prefer your turkey warm, briefly heat it in a pan before adding it back into the salad.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help enhance your experience with this recipe!

What makes the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe special?

This salad stands out due to its vibrant combination of fresh ingredients, hearty chickpeas, and creamy cheeses all tossed together with a zesty homemade dressing. It’s satisfying yet light enough for any occasion!

Can I customize the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences—think cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or even grilled chicken for extra protein.

How long does the dressing last?

The dressing can be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before using, and enjoy!

Is this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe healthy?

Yes! This salad is packed with fresh veggies, protein from chickpeas and turkey slices, and healthy fats from olive oil. It’s a nutritious choice for any meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delicious Famous La Scala Chopped Salad at home! It’s not only easy and quick but also a versatile dish that brings so much flavor to your table. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or alongside your favorite protein, it’s bound to be a hit. Happy cooking!