This colorful La Scala Chopped Salad is a tasty mix of fresh veggies, cheese, and salami. It’s crunchy, vibrant, and full of flavor in every bite!
Whenever I make this salad, it feels like a party on my plate! Plus, it’s so easy to whip up as a side or a light meal. Let’s just say, more veggies mean extra smiles! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce: This lettuce has a nice crunch and fresh flavor, perfect for salads. If you can’t find it, feel free to use other greens like iceberg or mixed salad greens.
Chickpeas: These add protein and fiber. Canned chickpeas are super convenient. For a different texture, black beans or kidney beans will work too!
Cheeses: Mozzarella and provolone give creaminess and flavor. If you’re dairy-free, you could try vegan cheeses or skip them altogether. Adding nuts can give a nice crunch!
Salami: The salami adds a savory touch. Tofu or tempeh can be a nice plant-based substitute. For a lighter option, try shredded rotisserie chicken.
Italian Dressing: Store-bought dressing makes it easy, but homemade vinaigrette with olive oil and vinegar works wonders! Adjust the balsamic vinegar for tanginess.
How Do You Ensure Your Salad Ingredients Are Perfectly Mixed?
A big challenge when making salads is achieving even distribution of all ingredients. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a large mixing bowl; this helps prevent overcrowding.
- Layer ingredients gradually. Start with lettuce and then add chickpeas, cheese, and salami on top without mixing.
- Use salad tongs or two large spoons to toss gently. This ensures everything gets combined without bruising the greens.
- Pour the dressing in the middle and toss again—this helps coat all ingredients evenly.
By mixing thoughtfully, you’ll have a salad that’s not only tasty but visually appealing! Enjoy every bite! 😊
Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 head of romaine lettuce, finely chopped or shredded
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/3 cup sliced or julienned salami
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup Italian dressing (or your favorite vinaigrette)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and straightforward, making it perfect for a busy day or when you want something fresh and tasty without much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Greens:
Start by washing the romaine lettuce thoroughly under cold water. Pat it dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner if you have one. Once dry, chop or shred the lettuce finely to create a nice, fluffy base for your salad.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, mix together your chopped romaine, cooked chickpeas, shredded mozzarella, shredded provolone, and salami strips. If you like a little extra crunch and flavor, toss in some finely chopped red onion.
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the Italian dressing over the salad mixture. It’s time to get your hands a little messy! Use salad tongs or two large spoons to gently toss everything together, making sure all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of your salad. Give it one last light toss to mix in the cheese without breaking everything apart.
5. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the freshest texture and best flavor.
Enjoy this vibrant, crunchy, and savory chopped salad! It’s a delicious combination of fresh greens, cheese, and meaty goodness, perfect as a side dish or a light, satisfying meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Lettuce?
Absolutely! While romaine adds great crunch, you can use iceberg, mixed greens, or even spinach if you prefer. Just be sure to chop or shred it finely for a nice texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain the crispness of the greens!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or even shredded carrots can add extra color and flavor to the salad. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces!
What Can I Use Instead of Chickpeas?
If chickpeas aren’t your thing, you can substitute them with canned black beans, kidney beans, or edamame for a different protein source. This will still keep the salad hearty and satisfying!
