This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a colorful mix of fresh veggies, cheese, and crispy bacon, all tossed in a zesty dressing. It’s crunchy, tasty, and perfect for any meal!
I love how it brightens up any table! It’s like a party in a bowl, and trust me, you’ll want to grab seconds. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up for friends! 🥗🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine and Iceberg Lettuce: These greens add a nice crunch. If you’re looking to mix it up, you can use green leaf lettuce or even spinach for a darker green option.
Chickpeas: Chickpeas give a protein boost! You can swap these for black beans or kidney beans if you prefer, or leave them out entirely for a lighter version.
Salami: Thinly sliced salami is traditional, but feel free to substitute with turkey or chicken deli meat for a leaner option. Even pepperoni works well!
Provolone Cheese: I love Provolone for its nice melt in this salad. Mozzarella or even crumbled feta can be delicious alternatives if you want different flavors.
Red Onions: They add a bit of zest, but if you find them too strong, sweet onions or scallions can help soften that bite, or you can leave them out.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing?
The dressing is key to bringing this salad to life! The good news is it’s super simple. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by whisking the olive oil and vinegar together first. This helps break the oil down for a smoother mix.
- Add the Dijon mustard and sugar – the mustard balances the acidity in the vinegar, while the sugar adds a hint of sweetness.
- Lastly, season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. I recommend tasting it before adding more salt!
For a creamier dressing, consider mixing in a spoonful of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. This adds richness and pairs beautifully with the fresh ingredients.
Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups finely shredded romaine lettuce
- 1 cup finely shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced salami strips
- 1/2 cup shredded Provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped red onions (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and fresh black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple salad can be prepared in about 15-20 minutes. The actual time may vary depending on how quick you are at chopping and mixing. If you’d like to chill it a bit before serving to let the flavors meld, just pop it in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Greens:
In a large salad bowl, start by combining the finely shredded romaine and iceberg lettuce. This mix gives you a wonderful crunch and vibrant color.
2. Add the Good Stuff:
Next, toss in the rinsed chickpeas, thin strips of salami, shredded Provolone cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. If you’re using red onions, throw them in as well for a bit of zing!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and nicely combined.
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over your salad mixture and use a large spoon or salad tongs to gently toss everything together until each ingredient is well-coated in that delicious dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad. If it needs more seasoning, feel free to add a pinch more salt or pepper to suit your taste.
6. Serve Fresh:
For the best crunch, serve the salad immediately. If you prefer, you can chill it for about 10-15 minutes in the fridge but make sure to serve it before the lettuce starts to wilt.
This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is the perfect balance of savory flavors with fresh, crispy lettuces, and the tangy dressing ties it all together perfectly. Enjoy every bite! 🌿🍴
FAQ about Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Can I Prep This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time! Chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just add the dressing right before serving to maintain the lettuce’s crispness.
What Can I Substitute for Salami?
If you’re looking for a different protein option, turkey or chicken deli meat works wonderfully. You can also use chopped bacon for a smoky flavor or keep it vegetarian by increasing the chickpeas or adding a variety of other veggies!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the salad may lose its crunch as it sits, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh. If you need to save it longer, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
What is the Best Way to Add More Flavor?
To amp up the flavor, consider adding herbs like fresh basil or parsley. You can also include other ingredients like olives, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for some heat. Experiment to find your perfect blend!
