Famous La Scala Chopped Salad: A Deliciously Easy-to-Make Favorite

If you’re looking for a salad that’s not only packed with flavor but also brings a bit of glamour to your table, look no further than the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad. This vibrant dish has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of many, including the Kardashians, and it’s easy to see why. Originating from the iconic La Scala restaurant in Beverly Hills, this salad is a beloved staple that has stood the test of time since 1956. With its crisp ingredients and tangy dressing, it’s the perfect addition to any gathering—whether you’re hosting a brunch, a light dinner, or a festive party. Plus, it’s easy to make, making it a go-to recipe for busy hosts!

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

Let’s gather what you need to create this sensational salad:

For the Salad:

Romaine Lettuce: 4 cups, chopped – Provides a crunchy base.
Iceberg Lettuce: 2 cups, chopped – Adds a crisp texture.
Salami: 1 cup, diced – A salty, savory component.
Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, diced – For a creamy, delicious bite.
Canned Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas): 1 cup, drained and rinsed – Adds protein and heartiness.
Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved – For a burst of color and flavor.
Green Onion: 1/2 cup, chopped – A fresh oniony kick.
Black Olives: 1/2 cup, sliced – For an extra salty flavor.

For the Dressing:

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1/3 cup – The base of the dressing.
Red Wine Vinegar: 1/4 cup – Adds acidity and brightness.
Dry Ground Mustard: 1 teaspoon – For a slight tang.
Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated (plus more for serving) – Provides creaminess and depth of flavor.
Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste – Enhances the overall taste.

Equipment:

Large mixing bowl
Whisk or fork for the dressing
Chopping board and knife
Serving platter or salad bowl

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Creating the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is quick and straightforward. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dry ground mustard, and grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk until the mixture is well-blended. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed, keeping in mind that the salami and olives will also contribute saltiness to the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the chopped romaine and iceberg lettuce. Layer on the diced salami, fresh mozzarella, garbanzo beans, cherry tomatoes, chopped green onion, and sliced black olives.

Step 3: Toss and Serve

Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Using tongs or salad servers, gently toss the salad until everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese for a lovely finish. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of hours.

Optional Variations and Creative Additions

Feel free to get creative with this salad! Here are some delicious variations to try:

Add More Veggies: Incorporate diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or radishes for added crunch and color.
Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or even diced hard-boiled eggs to make it a complete meal.
Switch the Cheese: Try feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist on the classic flavors.
Spice It Up: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Serving Tips

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is not just easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile for serving:

Perfect Pairings: It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or even as a light starter before a hearty main course.
Presentation Matters: Serve it in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients, making it visually appealing for any gathering.
Make It Ahead: If you want to prepare it in advance, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting.

FAQs: Best Preparation and Storage Practices

Q: Can I prepare this salad the night before?
A: While you can chop the ingredients ahead of time, it’s best to assemble and dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain the texture of the lettuce.

Q: Can I make this salad vegan?
A: Yes! Substitute the salami with a plant-based alternative, use vegan mozzarella, and replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan option or nutritional yeast for flavor.

Q: What should I do if I can’t find garbanzo beans?
A: You can easily substitute them with other beans such as black beans or kidney beans for a similar texture and protein boost.

Conclusion: A Salad Worth Sharing

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is not just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that brings joy to any meal. With its ease of preparation and ability to impress guests, it’s perfect for casual family dinners, elegant gatherings, or simply as a satisfying lunch. With a delicious combination of fresh ingredients and a tangy dressing, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients, whip up this delightful dish, and watch it disappear from the table!