La Scala Chopped Salad is a vibrant and delicious salad that has become a staple in many households. Known for its colorful fresh salad ingredients and zesty Italian salad dressing, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a healthy lunch idea or a refreshing side dish. This homemade chopped salad recipe is not only easy to prepare but also customizable, making it a great option for meal prep. Follow this guide to make your own La Scala Chopped Salad at home! The combination of textures and flavors in this salad makes it a delightful treat that can brighten up any meal.

Ingredients

• Fresh Salad Ingredients:
  • 1 small head of romaine lettuce, chopped (about 4 cups) – for a crisp and refreshing base.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – these provide a juicy sweetness to the salad.
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced – adds a cool crunch.
  • 1 cup radishes, sliced – gives a peppery bite that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped – adds a sharp, savory note; soaking these in water for a few minutes can mellow their intensity.
  • 1 cup garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained and rinsed – offers protein and fiber, making the salad more filling.
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced – these add a briny depth of flavor.
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, diced – creamy and mild; can be replaced with a dairy-free option for vegan diets.
• Italian Salad Dressing:
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil – choose a high-quality oil for the best flavor and health benefits.
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar – adds tanginess and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dressing.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – imparts a subtle kick and helps emulsify the dressing.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano – offers an aromatic herbal note typical of Italian cuisine.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – essential for balancing flavors; consider using freshly cracked black pepper for added aroma.

Note: For the freshest salad, choose seasonal salad ingredients and high-quality olive oil. You can substitute mozzarella cheese with feta for a saltier flavor or omit it altogether for a vegan option. Additionally, if you prefer a creamier dressing, consider adding a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Steps / Instructions

1. Start by preparing the dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. The dressing should have a smooth consistency; taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside.
2. In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced radishes, finely chopped red onion, garbanzo beans, sliced Kalamata olives, and diced mozzarella cheese. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients uniformly.
3. Pour the Italian salad dressing over the salad ingredients. Use a large spoon to gently toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing. Ensure that every piece of vegetable and cheese is well-dressed to maximize flavor.
4. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving. This resting time is crucial — it enhances the taste and allows the vegetables to absorb the dressing.
5. Serve the La Scala Chopped Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnished with extra olives or cheese if desired. For added flair, consider sprinkling some fresh herbs on top, such as basil or parsley.

Tips & Tricks

• Storage: To keep your salad fresh, store the dressing separately from the salad ingredients. Combine them just before serving to prevent wilting. If you’ve prepped a large batch, only dress what you plan to eat immediately.
• Make-Ahead: You can chop your fresh salad ingredients a day in advance. Keep them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for easy meal prep. This not only saves time but also allows the ingredients to remain crisp and fresh.
• Common Mistakes: Avoid over-mixing the salad to maintain the crispness of the vegetables. A gentle toss is sufficient; vigorous mixing can lead to bruising and a soggy salad.
• Chopping Techniques: Use a sharp chef’s knife for even chopping, and ensure all ingredients are roughly the same size for a more harmonious bite. This not only improves the texture but also enhances the visual appeal of your La Scala Chopped Salad.

Variations

• For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or shrimp. These are excellent additions to create a heartier meal, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. Marinated proteins can elevate the flavor even further.
• For a vegan version, exclude the cheese and consider adding avocado for creaminess. Avocado also provides healthy fats, making the salad even more satisfying.
• Experiment with different vibrant salad flavors by incorporating seasonal ingredients like bell peppers or zucchini. This allows for creativity and adaptation based on what’s available at the market.

Serving Suggestions

La Scala Chopped Salad can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a crusty loaf of bread for a complete meal. For a refreshing lunch salad, serve it alongside a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon. Check out our related guide for more tips on enhancing your dining experience.

Consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or basil, to enhance the Mediterranean-inspired flavors. These herbs not only add color but also provide a fresh aroma that complements the salad beautifully. For more delicious salad ideas, check out Fresh Crab Stick Salad or Easy Smoked Salmon & Herb Cream Cheese Wraps. Enjoy your culinary adventure with La Scala Chopped Salad, and delight in the fresh flavors and vibrant colors it brings to your table!

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La Scala Chopped Salad

Recipe by Laila

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Salad Cuisine: Italian Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

− 4 +

⏱️

Prep Time

15 min

🍳

Cook Time

30 min

🔥

Calories

250 kcal

A vibrant and delicious salad that has become a staple in many households, known for its colorful fresh salad ingredients and zesty Italian salad dressing.

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 1 small head of romaine lettuce, chopped (about 4 cups)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup radishes, sliced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, diced
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1.

Start by preparing the dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. The dressing should have a smooth consistency; taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside.

2.

In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced radishes, finely chopped red onion, garbanzo beans, sliced Kalamata olives, and diced mozzarella cheese. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients uniformly.

3.

Pour the Italian salad dressing over the salad ingredients. Use a large spoon to gently toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.

4.

Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

5.

Serve the La Scala Chopped Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnished with extra olives or cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Calories 250 kcal