Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This salad is not just a side dish; it's a full experience. The unique combination of fresh vegetables, flavorful meats, and cheese, all tossed in a mouthwatering dressing, makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether served as a main dish or an accompaniment, this salad has everything you need: crunch, creaminess, and a tangy punch. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes, and it’s sure to be a hit every time.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head of Romaine lettuce, chopped

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup cucumber, peeled and diced

• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped

• ¼ cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced

• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

• ½ cup cooked and chopped turkey or chicken (optional)

• ½ cup cooked beef, crumbled (optional)

• ¼ cup garbanzo beans (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions:

1. Start by preparing all your vegetables. Chop the Romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces, halve the cherry tomatoes, peel and dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion.

2. In a large salad bowl, combine the lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, pepperoncini, mozzarella, and feta.

3. If you're adding protein, mix in the cooked turkey or chicken and crumbled beef.

4. Toss everything together gently to combine.

5. Drizzle with your favorite Italian-style dressing (or homemade vinaigrette) and toss again to coat the ingredients evenly.

6. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Servings and Timing:

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations:

• Vegan: Omit the mozzarella, feta, turkey, and beef for a vegan version of this salad. You can substitute with vegan cheese or other plant-based protein options like chickpeas.

• Dressing: While the traditional Italian dressing is delicious, you can experiment with different dressings such as balsamic vinaigrette, ranch, or even a lemon-olive oil mix for a lighter, refreshing taste.

• Add-ins: Try adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, radishes, or even avocados for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating:

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The lettuce and vegetables might lose some of their crunch over time, but it will still taste great!

• Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold, so reheating is not recommended. However, if you have added cooked proteins like chicken or beef, those can be reheated separately before adding to the salad for a warm version.

FAQs

Can I make the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad in advance?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients and store them separately in the refrigerator. Just toss the salad together and add the dressing right before serving.

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Yes, if Romaine isn't your preference, you can use iceberg lettuce, mixed greens, or even spinach as a base.

What dressing is best for this salad?

An Italian-style dressing or a homemade vinaigrette is the best match, but feel free to use any dressing you enjoy.

Can I make this salad without cheese?

Yes, the salad can be made dairy-free by omitting the mozzarella and feta. You could replace them with a plant-based cheese option if you prefer.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure that the dressing you use is also gluten-free.

Can I make the salad spicier?

Yes, you can add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to bring some heat to the salad.

How do I make this salad vegetarian?

Simply omit the beef and add extra protein, like chickpeas or tofu, to keep it hearty and satisfying.

Can I add fruit to the salad?

Yes! Adding fruits like apples, pears, or grapes can create a nice contrast to the savory ingredients and add a touch of sweetness.

Can I use store-bought dressing for convenience?

Absolutely! While homemade dressing is delicious, store-bought Italian dressing works great for a quick, convenient option.

How long does this salad stay fresh in the fridge?

The salad will stay fresh for 1-2 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.

Conclusion:

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a fantastic dish that combines simplicity with bold flavors. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a side dish at your next gathering, it’s easy to prepare and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. With its crunchy vegetables, rich cheese, and tasty dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.