Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a refreshing and hearty salad that can brighten up any meal, you’ve come to the right place! This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that never fails to impress. It’s crunchy, flavorful, and so easy to put together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish or serving it alongside your favorite protein, this salad will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

What I love most about this chopped salad is how versatile it is. You can whip it up in just 20 minutes, and the ingredients are simple and wholesome. So grab your chopping board, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a flavorful salad ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The combination of textures and flavors makes this salad a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dressing separately and toss the salad together when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious Flavors: The mix of fresh greens, creamy cheeses, and zesty dressing brings out incredible taste in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this wonderful Famous La Scala Chopped Salad, you’ll only need a handful of simple ingredients that bring tons of flavor. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Dressing

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 Tablespoons apple cider 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 (5-6 cups)
• 1 head shredded romaine lettuce (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 parts about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try grilled chicken pieces or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and color.
• Change the cheese: Use feta or goat cheese if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
• Go gluten-free: Ensure your Dijon mustard is gluten-free if you’re catering to dietary needs.

How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, add all of the dressing ingredients together. Whisk everything until it’s well combined or simply shake it up if using a jar! This step is crucial because it allows all those wonderful flavors from the garlic, mustard, and olive oil to meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large bowl, combine the shredded iceberg and romaine lettuces. Next, add in the drained chickpeas and thinly sliced Italian turkey. Don’t forget about those creamy mozzarella shreds! This mix of greens and proteins makes for an enticing base that everyone will enjoy.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

Pour that delicious dressing over your salad mixture. Now comes the fun part—tossing all those ingredients together until they’re evenly coated! This ensures every bite has that mouthwatering flavor from the dressing. Serve immediately for a fresh experience!

Enjoy this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad right away! If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for 1-2 days but keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness. Happy eating!

Pro Tips for Making Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Making this salad is a breeze, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate it to perfection!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the salad’s nutritional value. Look for crisp lettuces and vibrant vegetables to make your salad shine.
• Customize Your Proteins: Feel free to swap out the Italian turkey for other proteins like grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or even plant-based deli slices. This flexibility allows you to cater to different dietary needs and preferences.
• Make It Ahead: Preparing the dressing in advance saves time and ensures that the flavors meld beautifully. Just store it separately until you’re ready to toss everything together!
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad; you may want to adjust the salt or acidity based on your personal preference. A little tweak can make all the difference!
• Chill Before Serving: Letting your chopped salad rest in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to develop and makes it extra refreshing!

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

This delicious salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas for presenting this delightful recipe:

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil can brighten up your salad and add an aromatic twist.
• Croutons: Top your salad with homemade or store-bought croutons for an extra crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender greens.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving adds a zesty kick that elevates all the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus make a wonderful complement to the freshness of your salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf with herbs or nuts provides a hearty side that’s both nutritious and satisfying, perfect for rounding out your meal.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the tangy dressing in your salad while adding an additional layer of flavor.
• Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is always a hit! It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover salad—who could resist?

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a fabulous La Scala Chopped Salad that’s sure 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 it in advance and enjoy the flavors throughout the week. Here are some tips for storing and enjoying your salad at its best.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftover salad to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days.
• If possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the texture of fresh vegetables and cheese.
• However, you can freeze the dressing in a separate container if you make a larger batch.
• Thaw the dressing overnight in the refrigerator when needed.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad as it’s best served cold or at room temperature.
• If you’ve made a batch with leftover turkey slices, you can gently warm those up separately if desired.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe.

Can I make the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance. Just store them separately from the dressing and combine everything right before serving for optimal freshness.

What makes this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe so special?

This recipe combines fresh, vibrant ingredients with a flavorful homemade dressing, making it a delightful dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying!

How long does the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad last in the fridge?

The salad will stay fresh for 1-2 days when stored properly in an airtight container. For best results, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Can I customize the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins that you love. The base recipe is versatile and allows for plenty of creativity.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe as much as I do! It’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures that brings a burst of freshness to any meal. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a side dish, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this delicious creation!