If you’re craving a salad that bursts with flavor, texture, and a delightful mix of ingredients, the Refreshing La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is your next must-make. This dish combines crunchy romaine and iceberg lettuces with savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and the subtle bite of chickpeas and onions—tossed in a tangy, zesty dressing that brings everything together perfectly. It’s quick to prepare, vibrant on the plate, and guaranteed to brighten up any meal or gather friends around the table for a fresh, tasty bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients each play a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the crisp lettuces to the creamy cheese and savory salami, every component adds character to this refreshing salad.
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, finely chopped: Adds a crisp, slightly bitter crunch that’s classic in any chopped salad.
- 2 cups iceberg lettuce, finely chopped: Brings refreshing juiciness and a light texture, giving the salad body without heaviness.
- 1/2 cup salami, diced: Introduces a savory, slightly spicy punch that elevates the salad to a satisfying meal.
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, diced or shredded: Offers creamy creaminess and mild flavor to balance the sharper ingredients.
- 1/3 cup chickpeas, rinsed and drained: Adds a subtle nuttiness and extra protein, making it more filling.
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Brightens the dish with juicy bursts of sweetness and lovely color.
- 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped: Provides a zesty sharpness that wakes up your taste buds.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: The foundation of the dressing, contributing rich smoothness and depth.
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar: Brings acidity and brightness to balance the richness of the olive oil and salami.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and emulsifies the dressing.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses gentle savory warmth into the dressing for complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all flavors into harmony.
How to Make Refreshing La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by whisking together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This simple dressing is the soul of the salad, marrying tangy acidity with smooth richness and a hint of spice. Setting it aside allows the flavors to mingle while you prep the rest.
Step 2: Chop the Ingredients
Take your romaine and iceberg lettuces and finely chop them into uniform bite-sized pieces. Then dice the salami and mozzarella cheese for even distribution throughout the salad. This step is key because consistent chopping ensures every forkful hits you with the perfect balance of all ingredients.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the chopped romaine, iceberg lettuce, diced salami, mozzarella, chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion. The combination of crunchy, creamy, savory, and sweet elements here builds layers of satisfying texture and flavor.
Step 4: Dress and Toss
Drizzle your prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Use tongs or two large spoons to gently toss everything together until the dressing evenly coats every ingredient. This ensures that each bite bursts with that signature tangy zest and freshness you expect from the Refreshing La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
For the freshest experience, serve the salad right away. The crispness of the lettuce and the vibrancy of the dressing shine brightest when enjoyed immediately, making each forkful lively and perfectly balanced.
How to Serve Refreshing La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or some chopped fresh basil or parsley to brighten up the presentation and introduce an herbal note that complements the existing flavors beautifully. A few curls of Parmesan cheese can also add a lovely finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with light grilled chicken or fish, offering a fresh contrast to warm, tender proteins. It also serves as a fantastic standalone lunch or a vibrant side at casual gatherings or barbecue nights, bringing a crisp, colorful element to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this salad in mason jars for an easy grab-and-go option, layering ingredients for a stunning visual effect. Alternatively, toss it in individual bowls with a wedge of lemon on the side for guests to add a little extra zing as preferred. Presentation can elevate this simple salad into a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad without the dressing in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain crispness. When ready to serve again, just toss with fresh dressing to refresh flavors and textures.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh; freezing is not recommended due to the lettuce wilting and the cheese and tomatoes changing texture after thawing. It’s a dish that shines brightest when served fresh.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh, cold salad, reheating is unnecessary and would compromise its crisp, refreshing qualities. Instead, enjoy any leftovers chilled and freshly dressed.
FAQs
Can I substitute the salami with another protein?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of salami or want a lighter option, try grilled chicken, turkey, or even smoked tofu. Each alternative will bring its own flavor profile while keeping the salad filling and delicious.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
With the salami included, it’s not strictly vegetarian. However, removing the salami or substituting it with a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu makes this salad vegetarian-friendly without losing its heartiness.
How long does the salad stay fresh after dressing?
Once dressed, the salad is best eaten within a few hours because the lettuces will start to soften. For optimal crunch, dress the salad just before serving.
Can I prepare the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the dressing can be made and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just give it a good whisk before using as the oil and vinegar may separate over time.
What makes the Refreshing La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe so special compared to other salads?
It’s the perfect harmony of textures and flavors—crisp lettuces, creamy cheese, savory salami, sweet tomatoes, and a tangy dressing that wakes up your palate. It’s simple yet sophisticated, making it a staple for both everyday meals and entertaining.
Final Thoughts
Making the Refreshing La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is like giving yourself a gift of freshness, vibrant flavors, and easy preparation all rolled into one bowl. It’s a salad that invites you to savor every bite, whether for a quick lunch or a special meal with friends. Don’t hesitate to dive in and enjoy the wonderful balance this salad offers—you’ll keep reaching for the bowl again and again!
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Refreshing La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This refreshing La Scala Chopped Salad is a vibrant and flavorful mix of crisp romaine and iceberg lettuce, savory salami, creamy mozzarella, protein-packed chickpeas, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty homemade dressing. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a perfect light and satisfying dish for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, finely chopped
- 2 cups iceberg lettuce, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup salami, diced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, diced or shredded
- 1/3 cup chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Chop the Ingredients: Finely chop the romaine and iceberg lettuce. Dice the salami and mozzarella cheese into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine the Salad: In a large bowl, add the chopped romaine, iceberg lettuce, diced salami, mozzarella, rinsed chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion. Gently toss to mix evenly.
- Dress and Toss: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is coated evenly with the dressing.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its crisp and fresh texture and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add toasted pine nuts or walnuts.
- You can substitute salami with turkey or ham for a different protein option.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the salami or replace it with marinated tofu or tempeh.
- Chilling the salad ingredients beforehand enhances freshness.
- The salad dressing can be prepared up to a day in advance and refrigerated.
