This yummy chopped salad is a colorful mix of fresh veggies, crispy lettuce, and tasty extras like salami and provolone cheese. It’s packed with flavor and perfect for any meal!
What makes this salad famous is the zesty dressing that ties everything together—you’ll want to drizzle it on everything! I love serving it with crusty bread for a fun crunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Iceberg Lettuce: This gives a nice crunch, but you can swap it with Romaine for a crisp texture or even baby spinach for a softer feel. I enjoy mixing different greens for added flavor.
Chickpeas: They provide protein, but if you’re looking for a different texture, you could use black beans or kidney beans instead. Just make sure to rinse them as well!
Salami: If you’re avoiding cured meats, turkey or chicken breast could be great substitutes. You could also use a plant-based deli meat for a veggie option!
Provolone Cheese: This cheese adds a creamy factor, but mozzarella or even feta could work in a pinch. I like using feta because it adds a tangy touch!
Italian Dressing: For a homemade version, mix olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and garlic. For a lighter option, use balsamic vinegar with some olive oil. I sometimes throw in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra zest!
How Can I Ensure All Ingredients are Well Mixed?
Mixing ingredients evenly helps distribute flavors throughout your salad. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by placing your chopped lettuces at the bottom of a large bowl; this provides a base.
- Layer the other ingredients, like chickpeas and salami, on top. This prevents lettuce from wilting under heavier items.
- When you drizzle the dressing, use a gentle tossing motion. This helps incorporate the dressing without bruising fragile leaves. I like to use two large forks or salad tongs for this step.
Letting the salad rest for 10-15 minutes allows flavors to meld, so don’t skip that part! When you’re ready to serve, give it another quick toss to ensure everything is mixed well.
Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 small head of iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup green leaf lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup radicchio, chopped
- 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup salami, chopped
- 1/2 cup provolone cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (or more to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This colorful salad is quick to prepare! You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep time. Allowing it to sit for 10-15 minutes will help blend the flavors perfectly. So, in total, about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Greens and Ingredients:
Grab a large mixing bowl and start by adding in your chopped iceberg lettuce, green leaf lettuce, and radicchio. Then, throw in the chickpeas, chopped salami, shredded provolone cheese, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. Give everything a nice mix to combine!
2. Add the Parmesan Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over your salad mixture. This adds a wonderful richness to the salad that you’ll love!
3. Dress and Toss the Salad:
Now it’s time to drizzle the Italian dressing over the salad. Pour it on, then gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated and well mixed. Taste the salad and add salt and black pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
4. Let the Salad Rest:
For the best taste, let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes. This allows all those yummy flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is ready! Serve it chilled or at room temperature alongside your favorite dish or enjoy it as a light and refreshing meal on its own. Bon appétit!
Can I Substitute Ingredients for This Salad?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for substitutions, you can use any crunchy greens you have on hand, like romaine or spinach, instead of iceberg and green leaf lettuce. Feel free to swap salami for turkey or omit it for a vegetarian version. You can also use any cheese you like, such as feta or mozzarella!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, replace the salami and provolone with plant-based alternatives. You can use shredded non-dairy cheese and substitute chickpeas with grilled tofu for added protein. Make sure to use a vegan salad dressing to keep everything in line with your dietary preferences!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead! Just mix all the ingredients except for the dressing. Store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, drizzle the Italian dressing and toss everything together to keep it fresh.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
For any leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best eaten within 2-3 days. Note that the salad may become soggy over time, especially if the dressing is mixed in, so adding dressing right before eating is ideal!
