Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is an iconic Los Angeles creation that’s been celebrated for its perfectly balanced flavors and irresistible crunch. This salad is a glorious medley of crisp lettuces, savory Italian salami, creamy mozzarella, and tender chickpeas, all tossed in a zingy, garlicky red wine vinaigrette. Whether you’re looking to bring a taste of classic Hollywood to your table or you simply crave something fresh, satisfying, and downright delicious, this chopped salad will win over your heart (and your taste buds) from the very first bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the magical things about the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is that it doesn’t depend on obscure or fancy ingredients. Every element has a special role, coming together into a salad that’s far greater than the sum of its parts. Each component brings unique texture, flavor, or color—there’s simply no weak link in this stellar lineup!

• Extra virgin olive oil: The foundation of the dressing, it adds a rich, fruit-forward backbone that ties every bite together.
• Red wine vinegar: Provides the bright, tangy punch that keeps the salad lively and never flat.
• Garlic, minced: Essential for a deep, aromatic flavor in the dressing—don’t be shy with it!
• Dijon mustard (or dry mustard): Gives the dressing body and a gentle heat that’s subtle yet unmistakable.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Proper seasoning unlocks the full depth of every ingredient.
• Pecorino Romano (or parmesan), grated: Adds sharp, nutty, and salty complexity to the dressing—choose the best cheese you can find.
• Iceberg lettuce, shredded: Brings crunch and volume without overpowering other flavors.
• Romaine lettuce, shredded: Delivers a fresh, slightly bitter bite and gorgeous vibrant color.
• Chickpeas (garbanzo beans): These little beans give the salad extra heartiness and a creamy-tender texture.
• Italian salami, thinly sliced: Brings savoriness and a slight spice—buy a good quality for real flavor.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides melty, milky richness that balances out the zingy, tangy elements beautifully.

How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up the Signature Dressing

The secret to this salad’s legendary status is its bold, garlicky, tangy dressing. In a small bowl or jar, combine extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, kosher salt and pepper, and grated Pecorino Romano or parmesan cheese. Whisk everything until thoroughly combined—or if you’re using a jar, give it a vigorous shake with the lid on. This not only emulsifies the dressing but also infuses those flavors together perfectly. Set aside while you prep the rest of your salad.

Step 2: Shred the Lettuces

Using a sharp knife, finely shred both the iceberg and romaine lettuces. The key to an authentic Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is in the uniformly chopped, bite-sized pieces that make it irresistibly scoopable and easy to eat. Aim for ribbons rather than big chunks—you want every forkful to have a mix of lettuce, cheese, salami, and chickpeas.

Step 3: Combine the Salad Base

In your largest salad bowl, add in all the shredded iceberg and romaine lettuce. Drain and rinse your chickpeas thoroughly and toss them in. Add the thinly sliced Italian salami and the shredded mozzarella cheese. This is the point where the bowl starts looking possibly too full but trust that you’ll need every inch once the dressing goes in.

Step 4: Dress and Toss

Give your reserved dressing one last stir or shake, then pour it evenly over your salad ingredients. Use salad tongs or your cleanest hands to toss everything together, ensuring the dressing evenly coats every corner. You want the cheese, beans, salami, and lettuce to mingle so every bite boasts the famous La Scala flavor profile. Taste and tweak for salt or pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve Right Away

This salad is at its absolute best served immediately, while the lettuces are crisp and the dressing is fresh and vibrant. If you need to hold off, keep the dressing separate until just before serving—this preserves that signature crunch. Get ready to enjoy a dish that’s been L.A.’s go-to for decades!

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Garnishes

To finish with a flourish, sprinkle extra grated Pecorino Romano or parmesan over the top just before serving. A few cracks of fresh black pepper add visual appeal and an extra pop of flavor. For added color and tang, a scattering of halved cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of chopped parsley makes the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Balance your meal by pairing this salad with rustic Italian bread or a side of grilled vegetables. It also shines next to roast chicken, a bowl of minestrone, or your favorite pasta dishes. The salad’s zesty flavors cut through richer main courses, making it a superstar side for everything from pizza night to a sophisticated dinner party.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe layered in a clear trifle bowl for a show-stopping centerpiece. Spoon it into crisp, individual lettuce cups for parties, or stuff it into a baguette for a hearty, portable lunch. However you dress it up, just be sure to pile it high—people always want seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover salad, store it in a tightly sealed container in the fridge and enjoy within 1 to 2 days. The lettuce will soften a bit as it soaks up the dressing, but the flavors meld in a way that’s still outright delicious. For best results, store the dressing separately and toss just before eating.

Freezing

Because of the fresh lettuces and cheese, freezing the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe isn’t recommended. Freezing causes the texture of the greens and cheese to change and become mushy when thawed. Enjoy this salad fresh or make just enough to last a few days!

Reheating

Salad is best enjoyed cold and crisp, so there’s no need for reheating. If you’ve stored leftovers, just give everything a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing before serving. If the salad has released a bit of liquid, you can drain off excess before enjoying.

FAQs

What makes the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe so popular?

It’s the irresistible combination of bold flavors and textures—crisp lettuces, savory salami, creamy mozzarella, zingy dressing, and hearty chickpeas. The chopped presentation ensures every bite is perfectly balanced, making this salad endlessly crave-worthy.

Can I customize ingredients for dietary preferences?

Absolutely! Swap out salami for turkey or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version. Use gluten-free salami or different cheeses if needed. You can also add extras like olives or artichokes for your personal spin on the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe.

How do I get the lettuces super crisp?

After shredding, chill your lettuces in the fridge or even in a bowl of ice water for a few minutes. Dry thoroughly using a salad spinner or towels before assembling—this extra step makes the crunch unbeatable.

Is it important to use Pecorino Romano or can I substitute Parmesan?

Either cheese is delicious. Pecorino gives a slightly sharper and saltier bite, while Parmesan is milder and nuttier. Use what you love or have on hand—the key is freshly grated, not pre-shredded, for the best flavor in your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe.

Can I prep the salad ahead of time for entertaining?

Definitely! Shred the lettuces, grate the cheese, and slice the salami up to a day ahead. Store each ingredient separately in sealed containers, keep the dressing in a jar, and toss everything together right before serving for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason this salad has stood the test of time. Give the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe a spot in your regular rotation, and watch it become the dish everyone requests again and again. If you love bold flavors, unbeatable crunch, and effortless elegance, this is the salad to make and share. Enjoy every bite!

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