Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe: A Hollywood Favorite You Can Make at Home

There’s something intoxicating about the flavor explosion of a well-made chopped salad, wouldn’t you agree? Picture it: you’re at La Scala in Beverly Hills, mingling in a chic atmosphere, and this incredible salad is the highlight of your evening. Well, I’m here to let you in on a little secret—you can recreate that experience right at your own kitchen table! The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad isn’t just a dish; it’s like a burst of sunshine and an ode to fresh ingredients, all moving in harmony.

And believe me, there’s a good reason why this salad has charm reminiscent of old Hollywood. It's packed with flavor, texture, and a touch of glamour that makes every bite as delightful as the last. This isn't just fodder to fill you up; it's a vibrant medley that invites conversation and connection, making it perfect for gatherings whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or a festive celebration. So let’s dive into what makes this salad so exceptional.

Why you'll love this recipe

Imagine sinking your fork into layers of vibrant romaine, rich salami, smooth mozzarella, and hearty chickpeas, all drizzled with a tangy dressing that ties it all together like a perfectly scripted rom-com. This salad is a symphony of textures and flavors—crunchy, chewy, creamy—all playing in perfect harmony.

What really makes this dish sing is its balance; it’s light yet satisfying, making it a fabulous choice for those seeking a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Moreover, it’s adaptable! You can easily tweak it based on what you have in your pantry or to suit your guests' tastes. The beauty of this salad is that it not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a colorful array of nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients

Alright, let’s gather the fabulous cast of ingredients that will make this salad shine:

• 2 heads romaine lettuce: This is your crisp, green base—finely chop it for maximum bite-sized goodness.
• 1 cup finely chopped Genoa salami: A touch of decadence! This cured meat brings a savory, slightly spicy punch that anchors the salad.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella: Picture this creamy cheese melting in your mouth, adding richness and elevating the salad.
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained: Chickpeas add a hearty texture and protein, making this dish filling.
• 1/3 cup olive oil: A drizzling of liquid gold that serves as an essential part of the dressing, bringing a beautiful smoothness.
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar: A zesty kick that offsets the richness in the salad—trust me, don’t skip this!
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds a mild heat and deep flavor that rounds out the dressing beautifully.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: An herb that whispers of Mediterranean breezes and a little bit of warmth.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Always seasoning to enhance those vibrant flavors—never underestimate this duo!

Feel free to sub in different greens or proteins based on your taste or diet! Spinach or kale can step in for the romaine, while turkey or pepperoni could replace the salami if you’re feeling adventurous.

Preparing Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe: A Hollywood Favorite You Can Make at Home

Now, let’s get this party started with the steps to crafting your very own salad masterpiece!

1. Chop the greens: Finely chop your romaine lettuce, ensuring uniformity for a pleasing bite.
2. Dice the salami: Next, chop the Genoa salami into bite-sized pieces—feel that excitement as the delicious aroma wafts through the air!
3. Shred the mozzarella: Follow that up with the mozzarella, making sure it’s shredded well enough to mix smoothly through the salad.
4. Prep the chickpeas: Grab your drained chickpeas, giving them a good rinse to cleanse any canning liquid before tossing them into the mix.
5. Whisk the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing is the magic potion that brings everything together!
6. Combine: In a large salad bowl, combine your chopped lettuce, salami, mozzarella, and chickpeas. This is where the true magic happens.
7. Dress the salad: Pour that glorious dressing over the salad and toss until every piece is lovingly coated.
8. Let it rest: Allow the salad to sit for 5–10 minutes. This waiting game is important as it lets the flavors mingle and deepen—trust me, it’s worth it!
9. Serve up: Serve chilled, and if you’d like, finish it off with a sprinkling of grated Parmesan for a final touch of indulgence.

Best way to enjoy it

The beauty of this salad is its versatility when it comes to serving! You could enjoy it solo as a light lunch or dinner. But paired with grilled chicken or fish, it becomes a sure-fire hit at your dinner table. Imagine serving it alongside crusty bread or some garlic-infused focaccia for dipping.

Feel like adding a side? Consider pairing a light, zesty soup or roasted veggies for a complete meal. Oh, and don’t overlook the option of integrating it into a delightful brunch spread with mimosas!

Storage and reheating tips

Now, let’s talk about the practical stuff—what do you do with leftovers? If you happen to have some salad left, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just a heads-up: the dressing might soften the romaine if left too long, so try to add it just before serving when possible.

Freezing this salad isn't the best idea; too much moisture from the veggies can lead to soggy greens once thawed. But hey, leftovers are always a delight for a quick lunch!

Pro chef tips

Here are some little nuggets of wisdom that I swear by when making this salad:

• Texture matters: To add a bit of crunch, consider tossing in some chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios.
• Season really well: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! It’s the simplest way to enhance the flavors.
• Fresh herbs are your friends: Swap in fresh oregano or basil if you have them—they add a lovely pop of freshness!
• Make it ahead: Assemble all the ingredients but hold off on adding the dressing until you’re just about to eat.

Recipe variations

Feeling like switching things up? There are endless creative paths you can take with this salad:

• Sausage swap: Try swapping the salami for some spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick.
• Cheese upgrades: Use feta cheese for a tangy twist or goat cheese for a creamy addition.
• Veggie boost: Add diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even artichoke hearts for a burst of color and flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 heads romaine lettuce, finely chopped
• 1 cup finely chopped Genoa salami
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions to follow

1. Finely chop the romaine lettuce, salami, and mozzarella.
2. Rinse and drain chickpeas thoroughly.
3. In a bowl, whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Combine all chopped ingredients and chickpeas in a large salad bowl.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
6. Let the salad sit for 5–10 minutes to soak in the flavors.
7. Serve chilled, optionally topped with grated Parmesan.

Common questions

• How long does it take to prepare? About 20 minutes of active prep time and then a brief waiting period for the flavors to mingle.
• Can I make it vegan? Absolutely! Just omit the salami and cheese, or replace them with chickpea-based alternatives.
• What can I substitute for salami? Think diced turkey, grilled chicken, or even marinated tofu for a plant-based touch.
• How long will leftovers last? Stored properly in the fridge, about 3 days max.
• What if I want it spicier? Add some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce!

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. As you prepare it, enjoy the vibrant colors and inviting aromas. Celebrate the act of creating something fresh and delightful—and don’t forget to make it your own! With each bite, take note of how flavors evolve and intertwine, and I encourage you to experiment with your own twists. Join back in the comments and share how your version turned out. Happy cooking!