Famous La Scala Chopped Salad: The Best Homemade Twist

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I’ll never forget the first time I tasted the famous La Scala Chopped Salad at the iconic Beverly Hills restaurant. The moment I took my first bite, a burst of flavors danced on my palate, leaving me craving more. Imagine crisp iceberg lettuce mingling with savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and hearty garbanzo beans—all drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette that sings of tangy goodness. It was a refreshing explosion of textures and tastes that turned a simple salad into a satisfying meal.

Fast forward to a busy weeknight at home when I found myself yearning for that incredible salad but knew I could never match the experience of dining out. That’s when I decided to recreate that beloved dish right in my kitchen. This recipe for the Authentic La Scala Chopped Salad not only captures the charm of the original, but it’s also quick to make and pantry-friendly. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s a delightful way to break free from the mundane and bring a taste of Beverly Hills to your table. So, let’s dive in and bring some Italian flair to your home!

Why is the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad so popular?

Bursting with Flavor, the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad has won hearts beyond the walls of its Beverly Hills origins. Its irresistible combination of crunchy iceberg lettuce, savory salami, and creamy mozzarella offers a delightful tango of textures. What truly elevates this salad is its zesty vinaigrette—a perfect blend of red wine vinegar and Dijon mustard that wraps every ingredient in a tangy embrace.

With just a few quick steps, you can whip up this showstopper for your next lunch or dinner. Whether served as a light meal or a shareable side, this salad transforms any ordinary occasion into an Italian feast. Ready to elevate your table? Check out this refreshing cucumber and bell pepper salad to complete your culinary adventure!

Ingredients for Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

• Dive into this vibrant salad with delightful flavors and textures!

For the Salad
• Iceberg Lettuce – Finely chopped to provide that classic crunch synonymous with chopped salad.
• Italian Salami – Adds a savory richness that turns this dish into a filling meal; feel free to choose your favorite cured meat as a substitute.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Soft and mild, it beautifully balances the flavors of the salad.
• Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas) – These creamy beans not only add texture but also boost the protein content; use canned, rinsed and drained for convenience.

For the Dressing
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – A smooth and flavorful base for your zesty vinaigrette.
• Red Wine Vinegar – Provides that essential tang; if you're sensitive to acidity, start with 3 tablespoons instead of ¼ cup.
• Dijon Mustard – It gives a kick of flavor; dry mustard can work if you don't have Dijon on hand.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Crucial for enhancing all the vibrant flavors of the salad.
• Grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan Cheese – This salty, nutty cheese adds a savory finish; also sprinkle more on top before serving for extra flavor.

Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s create a salad that’ll delight your family and friends, making every bite a taste of the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

Make the Vinaigrette In a large serving bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of extra-virgin olive oil, ¼ cup of red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. This step ensures a creamy dressing that coats every ingredient evenly, enhancing the salad's flavor. The freshness of the olive oil combined with the tang of vinegar creates a delightful base that ties the salad together.
Chop the Vegetables Finely chop one head of iceberg lettuce and add it to the bowl with the vinaigrette. The crisp texture of the lettuce provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the other components. Mixing the lettuce with the dressing first allows it to absorb the flavors, making each bite more delicious.
Add the Salami and Cheese Julienne 4-6 ounces of Italian salami and incorporate it into the salad along with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. The salami adds a savory punch while the mozzarella brings creaminess, balancing the tangy vinaigrette. This combination of flavors and textures elevates your salad into a hearty meal!
Stir in the Garbanzo Beans Rinse and drain one can of garbanzo beans, then add them to the salad. These creamy beans provide protein and help make the salad more filling. Gently fold the ingredients together, ensuring the beans are evenly distributed without breaking them apart.
Toss & Serve Give everything a good toss to ensure all the ingredients are coated with the vinaigrette. Finish your salad with an extra sprinkling of grated pecorino Romano or parmesan cheese and a few cracks of black pepper on top. This final touch adds a savory finish and beautiful presentation, inviting everyone to enjoy your homemade La Scala Chopped Salad right away!

Tips for Making the Most Flavorful Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

Ingredient Quality: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is crucial. Opt for an organic head of iceberg lettuce for the crispiest texture and vibrant flavor that truly shines through. The better your ingredients, the more your salad will reflect the deliciousness of the original La Scala recipe.
Dressing Balance: If you're looking for less acidity, start with a little less red wine vinegar and adjust according to your taste. Adding a teaspoon of honey can balance out the tangy flavors but if you're feeling adventurous, try a splash of lemon juice for a fresh zing!
Ingredient Prep: I find that preparing all your vegetables ahead of time can make a huge difference. Keep them in separate containers in the fridge, which not only helps with freshness but also allows for quick assembling later. This way, you can enjoy the crispness of each component without worrying about sogginess.
Chickpea Alternatives: If you're not a fan of garbanzo beans, feel free to substitute with black beans or even roasted corn for a delightful twist. Both options maintain that hearty feel. Just make sure to rinse them well to avoid any tinny aftertaste.
Vinaigrette Whisking: When mixing your vinaigrette, I suggest whisking vigorously until you see it emulsify. This means the oil and vinegar combine smoothly, which gives the dressing a delightful texture and ensures it clings beautifully to each ingredient, elevating your salad's flavor profile.
Serving Freshness: To avoid wilting, serve your salad immediately after tossing. If you're making it in advance, keep the dressing apart and only add it right before serving. This ensures every bite is as fresh and flavorful as when you first made it!

How to Store and Freeze Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover Famous La Scala Chopped Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the lettuce crisp, it's best to store the dressing separately.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the ingredients, particularly the lettuce and cheese, lose their texture and quality.

Reheating: If you've included any warm toppings, like grilled chicken, reheat them in the microwave before adding to the salad. Avoid reheating the salad itself to maintain freshness.

Prepping Ahead: Chop and store ingredients separately to maintain freshness. Combine with dressing just before serving for the best result!

What to Serve with Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?

Elevate your dining experience with complementary dishes that enhance the vibrant flavors of this salad!

Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread adds a crunchy, toasted contrast to the fresh salad while making every bite feel indulgent.
Mediterranean Couscous: This light, fluffy dish with herbs and spices can absorb the zesty vinaigrette, creating a delightful harmony of flavors alongside your salad.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, marinated chicken skewers offer a protein-packed addition that balances the refreshing crunch of the chopped salad, making it a complete meal.
Zesty Lemonade: A glass of freshly squeezed lemonade brings a sweet and tangy refreshment that echoes the salad's tangy dressing, perfect for cleansing your palate.
Roasted Vegetables: A side of seasonal roasted veggies adds warmth and earthiness, contrasting deliciously with the crisp salad and creating a balanced meal.
Cheesecake Bites: For a light dessert, these creamy treats provide a sweet, rich finish to your meal, complementing the savory notes of the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A bubbly glass of sparkling water enhances the freshness of your meal, while a hint of lime ties everything together beautifully.

Turn It Into A Party!

Ready to impress your guests? The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser with its vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients! Perfect for any gathering, this salad will have everyone raving about your culinary skills 😉. Serve it with crunchy chips or crispy crackers for added texture. A few tips if serving for a crowd:

Prep it Ahead! Chop all ingredients a few hours in advance and store them separately. Just toss everything with the dressing right before serving to keep that irresistible crunch! (Trust me, your guests will notice!)
Keep It Cool! If you're serving outdoors, consider chilling the salad in a large bowl set over ice to maintain a fresh, cool vibe! (No one likes a soggy salad, especially on a warm day!)
Seasonal Feel! Add a twist by incorporating seasonal ingredients like fresh tomatoes in summer or roasted butternut squash in fall. Your salad can be a reflection of the season's bounty! (Wow, what a colorful addition!)

Get ready to elevate your entertaining game with a dish that's both easy and fabulous! 🎉

Substitutions

Can't find a few of these ingredients? No problem! They can easily be replaced with the suggestions below:

Iceberg Lettuce: Replace it with romaine lettuce. (Romaine adds extra crunch and flavor.)
Italian Salami: Replace it with prosciutto or sliced turkey. (Both options maintain a savory profile.)
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Replace it with feta cheese. (Feta adds a salty tang that complements the salad beautifully.)
Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas): Replace it with black beans or kidney beans. (Both provide a creamy texture and protein boost.)
Red Wine Vinegar: Replace it with apple cider vinegar. (This will give a slightly different but still delightful tang to your dressing.)

Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select iceberg lettuce for this salad?
When choosing iceberg lettuce, look for a head that feels heavy for its size with crisp, tightly packed leaves. Avoid any that show dark spots or wilting. I always choose the heads with vibrant green outer leaves as they offer the best crunch and flavor!

How should I store leftovers of the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?
To keep the salad fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For maximum crispness, make sure to keep the dressing separate. This helps keep the lettuce crunchy and prevents it from becoming soggy!

Can I freeze the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this salad. Ingredients like lettuce and cheese change dramatically in texture once frozen, leading to a mushy result. If you wish to meal prep, consider chopping the ingredients and storing them separately in your fridge. Just mix them with the dressing right before serving!

What should I do if the salad dressing is too tangy for my taste?
If you find the dressing too tangy, you can easily adjust the flavors! Start by reducing the amount of red wine vinegar to 3 tablespoons instead of ¼ cup. You can also add a teaspoon of honey to mellow the tanginess or a splash of lemon juice for a fresh, bright flavor that balances nicely.

Are there any common allergies I should be aware of with this salad?
Definitely! This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad contains dairy (from the mozzarella and pecorino cheese) and legumes (chickpeas). If you're serving guests, it's best to ask about allergies. To accommodate, you can replace cheese with a dairy-free alternative and omit the garbanzo beans for a simple yet delicious salad!

How can I make this salad more of a main dish for dinner?
To turn this salad into a satisfying main course, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tuna. For added pizzazz, serve it over a bed of quinoa or couscous! You can also include extra protein by mixing in nuts or seeds, each bringing in a delightful crunch. The more the merrier!

Maya Rowan