This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a colorful mix of fresh veggies, tangy cheese, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for a light meal or a tasty side dish!
When I make this salad, I love how crunchy and refreshing it is. Plus, it’s great for using up leftover veggies. Who knew eating healthy could be so fun? 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine lettuce: This provides a crisp base for the salad. If you can’t find Romaine, iceberg or Butter lettuce are good alternatives that will also add a nice crunch.
Chickpeas: They add protein and fiber. If you’re looking for a substitute, white beans or black beans can work well to maintain that hearty texture.
Salami: It gives a nice salty flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage can be a good choice, or you can skip the meat entirely for a vegetarian version.
Provolone cheese: This adds creaminess. Mozzarella or fontina can replace it if you’re after a similar texture, or you can go dairy-free with a nut-based cheese.
Red wine vinegar: This tangy vinegar brightens the salad. If you need a substitution, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice can work nicely without changing the salad’s character.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Tastes Amazing?
The key to a delicious salad is in the mixing of ingredients and dressing. Here’s how to ensure each bite is flavorful:
- Combine the chopped ingredients thoroughly in a large bowl. This ensures a good mix of flavors in every scoop.
- When whisking your dressing, add salt and pepper to taste. This can really elevate the overall flavor and tie the ingredients together.
- Let the salad sit for about 30 minutes in the fridge before serving. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier!
How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup green cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup radicchio, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup salami, diced
- 1/2 cup provolone cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and can be served immediately, or you can chill it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors come together. Perfect for a quick lunch or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix the chopped Romaine lettuce, green cabbage, radicchio, chickpeas, diced salami, shredded provolone cheese, red onion, and chopped parsley. Toss them gently to combine so everything is mixed evenly.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure to mix it well until it’s fully combined. This dressing will add great flavor to your salad!
3. Combine and Serve:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything together to ensure all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor.
4. Enjoy Your Salad:
Serve the salad immediately for best freshness. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before serving, which helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Enjoy your delicious La Scala Chopped Salad!
Can I Substitute the Salami?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, you can use turkey or chicken salami. For a vegetarian version, try using a plant-based salami or add more chickpeas for protein!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! This salad is very versatile. Feel free to add ingredients like bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots for extra crunch and color. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces to match the other ingredients.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, if you dressed the salad, the greens may wilt. To keep it fresh, store the salad and dressing separately and combine them just before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can prepare the chopped salad ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge in a sealed container. Just wait to add the dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep the lettuce crisp!
