This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a tasty mix of fresh veggies, cheese, and a zesty dressing. It’s colorful and crunchy, making it a perfect side dish or light meal!
I love how everything is chopped into bite-sized pieces—no awkwardly big bites here! It’s fun to toss with friends, and the flavors are always a hit. Enjoy it anytime!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Iceberg Lettuce: This provides crunch and volume. If you want a different texture, try using green leaf or butter lettuce instead, which are softer and have a mild flavor.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine adds a slight bitterness that balances the flavors. You can swap it for spinach for a more tender salad or arugula for a peppery kick.
Chickpeas: These add protein and fiber. If you’re looking for a different protein source, diced cooked chicken or turkey works well too. Black beans are a great vegetarian substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: The nutty flavor elevates the salad. For a non-dairy option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or crumbled tofu for a protein boost.
Bacon or Salami: This gives a nice savory flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider using marinated tempeh or smoked tofu for a similar taste profile.
How Do I Make Sure the Dressing is Just Right?
The dressing is key to tying the salad together. To get it just right, follow these steps:
- Start with good quality olive oil and red wine vinegar. The better the ingredients, the tastier the dressing!
- Whisk together the vinegar and olive oil in a small bowl until it emulsifies. This helps the oil and vinegar blend smoothly.
- Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper. Taste it before adding to the salad so you can adjust to your liking.
Mix the dressing with the salad just before serving to keep everything crisp. If you want deeper flavor, let it marinate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 1 small head of iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1 small head of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup of cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup of red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup of green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup of crispy bacon or salami, chopped
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup of green olives, sliced (optional)
For The Dressing:
- 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar
- 1/3 cup of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful chopped salad will take you about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an optional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. The chill time lets the flavors blend beautifully, making every bite a tasty experience!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Lettuce:
Start by taking a large salad bowl. In it, combine the chopped iceberg and romaine lettuce. Make sure they’re well mixed.
2. Add Additional Ingredients:
Next, add in the cooked chickpeas, diced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, and chopped bacon or salami. Then, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and sliced green olives if you’re using them. Give everything a gentle toss so it’s all nicely mixed.
3. Prepare The Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing is going to bring all your salad ingredients together!
4. Dress the Salad:
Now, pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together until it’s all evenly coated with the dressing. It’s like giving your salad a yummy hug!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Give your salad a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can serve it immediately for a fresh crunch or chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Enjoy your delicious La Scala-inspired chopped salad!
Can I Use Canned Chickpeas Instead of Dried?
Absolutely! Canned chickpeas are a great time-saver. Just drain and rinse them before adding them to the salad. If you prefer a softer texture, you can slightly mash them with a fork before incorporating them.
How Do I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
You can easily make this salad vegetarian by omitting the bacon or salami. For added flavor, consider swapping in some marinated artichokes or adding extra olives for a tasty boost!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate from the salad to help maintain the crispness of the vegetables. Just add the dressing right before serving!
Can I Substitute Other Dressings?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite dressing! A lemon vinaigrette or a creamy ranch also works well. Just remember to adjust the quantities to ensure the salad is evenly coated!
