This La Scala Chopped Salad is a colorful mix of fresh veggies, crisp lettuce, and flavorful ingredients like salami and cheese. It’s perfect for a light lunch or side dish that everyone will love!
With its crunchy texture and zesty dressing, this salad has a way of making your taste buds dance! I suggest making it ahead of time— the flavors blend beautifully when it sits for a bit.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Iceberg and Romaine Lettuce: These greens give a nice crunch and flavor. If you can’t find them, try using green leaf lettuce or even spinach for a softer texture.
Chickpeas: They add protein and fiber to the salad. You can swap these with white beans or kidney beans if you prefer. Canned lentils could also work for a different texture.
Salami: The flavor is bold and meaty. If you want a healthier option, turkey salami or even chopped cooked chicken can work. For a vegetarian version, try marinated artichokes or roasted peppers.
Provolone Cheese: This cheese adds creaminess. If provolone isn’t available, mozzarella or Monterey Jack are nice alternatives, offering similar taste while being mild.
Red onion: It gives a sharp crunch. If red onions are too strong for you, try green onions or even a bit of finely chopped shallots.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Dressing is Well Mixed?
Getting your dressing just right is crucial for this chopped salad. Whisking helps combine all the ingredients smoothly, which coats everything well.
- In a small bowl, add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Start whisking gently.
- Continue whisking until the mixture is well blended and slightly thickened. This means the oil and vinegar are well combined.
- Taste it! If you like it tangier, add a little more vinegar. For a smoother taste, adjust the oil.
- Pour the dressing over the salad right before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp.
How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Ingredients:
- 1 small head of iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1 small head of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup salami, sliced into thin strips
- 1/2 cup provolone cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you have extra time, chilling it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving will enhance the flavors. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 30 minutes for prep and chill!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding the chopped iceberg lettuce, chopped romaine lettuce, and finely chopped parsley. This colorful mix forms the base of your chopped salad, bringing a fresh crunch!
2. Add Protein and Flavor:
Next, add in the chickpeas, thinly sliced salami, shredded provolone cheese, finely chopped red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes (if you chose to use them). Give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients without crushing them.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Make sure it’s well-mixed and slightly emulsified for the best flavor.
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the salad mix in the large bowl. Toss everything together carefully, making sure all the ingredients are coated with the dressing, so each bite is delicious!
5. Finish with Parmesan:
Before serving, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad. This adds a nice salty bite that complements the other flavors beautifully!
6. Chill and Serve:
For the final touch, pop the salad in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together. When ready, serve it up as a refreshing light meal or a perfect side dish. Enjoy!
Can I Substitute Other Greens for the Lettuce?
Absolutely! If you prefer different greens, you can use spinach, kale, or arugula instead of iceberg or romaine. Just remember that heartier greens like kale may need to be massaged a little beforehand to soften them up and enhance flavor.
What Can I Use Instead of Salami?
If you’re looking for a substitute for salami, turkey or chicken deli meat works well for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try adding marinated artichoke hearts or additional chickpeas for protein!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. Just toss in the dressing right before serving!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots for added color and crunch. Just be sure to chop them into similar sizes for even distribution in the salad!
