This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a colorful mix of crispy greens, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers, topped with delicious feta cheese and crispy bacon bits. It’s fresh and full of flavor!
Serving this salad is a treat; who doesn’t love a dish that gives you a rainbow on your plate? I often add a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing—so refreshing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce: This is the base of the salad. It offers a crispy texture. You can swap it with iceberg lettuce or a mix of greens if you prefer something different.
Chickpeas: They provide protein and fiber. If you’re looking for a different texture, try black beans or cooked quinoa as a substitute.
Salami: The salami adds a flavorful bite. If you want a lighter option, turkey or chicken breast works well. For a vegetarian twist, use marinated tofu or omit it entirely.
Cheeses: I love using mozzarella and Parmesan for their creaminess. Feta or goat cheese can be great alternatives for added tang.
Red Onion: This adds a nice sharpness, but if onions aren’t your thing, you could leave them out or use green onions for a milder flavor.
How Do You Make Sure the Salad is Well-Mixed and Tasty?
Tossing the salad well ensures every bite is tasty. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Start by preparing all your ingredients and keeping them close by for easy access.
- When mixing, use your hands or a salad toss tool to lift the veggies from the bottom, allowing dressing to coat everything evenly.
- Add the dressing gradually; this way, you can control how wet you want the salad. You can always add more if needed!
- After tossing, let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors blend better.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying salad ready to enjoy!
Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, finely shredded
- 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 oz salami, cut into thin strips
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy dish. Just gather your ingredients, chop, and mix for a fresh and appetizing result!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by washing the romaine lettuce thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Then, finely shred the lettuce and place it into a large mixing bowl. This will be the crunchy base of your chopped salad.
2. Add the Chickpeas and Salami:
Next, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the bowl. Following that, sprinkle in the thinly sliced salami. The combination of flavors will add great depth to your salad.
3. Incorporate the Cheeses:
Now, stir in the shredded mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese. These cheesy additions will bring creaminess and richness to the dish.
4. Include Optional Ingredients:
If you’re using red onion, now’s the time to add the finely chopped pieces. They will provide a nice sharpness that complements the other flavors in the salad.
5. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried Italian herbs, and a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper. This is what will bring everything together!
6. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the mixed salad ingredients in the large bowl. The dressing not only adds flavor but also helps to meld the ingredients beautifully.
7. Toss to Combine:
Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring that all the salad components are evenly coated with the delicious dressing.
8. Final Tasting:
Before serving, taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This is a great time to see if you prefer more salt, pepper, or even a bit more vinegar for extra tang.
Now, your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is ready to enjoy! Serve it fresh as a nutritious appetizer or as a light main dish. With its balance of crunchy greens, savory salami, and tangy dressing, it’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Can I Substitute the Salami?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, you can use turkey or chicken breast instead. For a vegetarian twist, consider adding marinated tofu or simply omitting the meat entirely.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, omit the salami and cheeses. You can replace the cheeses with dairy-free alternatives or skip them for a lighter salad. Adding extra chickpeas or some nuts can enhance the protein content!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the salad’s freshness and crunch. When you’re ready to eat, just toss and dress again!
Can I Make the Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chopped salad in advance! Just assembly and dressing should be done right before serving for maximum freshness. If making in advance, prepare the ingredients but keep them separate until you’re ready to enjoy.
