La Scala Chopped Salad

If you’re looking for a salad that’s as vibrant and lively as your favorite dinner party, then the La Scala Chopped Salad is just what you need! This salad is not only packed with delicious flavors but also brings a bit of celebrity flair to your table. It’s become a hot topic lately, especially since it has been said to be a favorite among stars like the Kardashians. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, this salad is sure to impress.

What makes this La Scala Chopped Salad truly special is how it combines fresh ingredients with simple prep. You can enjoy it as a light lunch or elevate it as a side dish for your main course. Trust me, once you make this salad, you’ll want to add it to your regular meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this hearty salad ready in no time!
• Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of crisp lettuce, savory turkey, and zesty dressing creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the colorful ingredients and delicious taste, making it perfect for both kids and adults.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time! It holds up well in the fridge for easy lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Let’s gather everything we need for this delightful La Scala Chopped Salad!

For the Salad

• 1 small head iceberg lettuce, finely chopped (about 5 cups)
• 1 heart of romaine, finely chopped (about 5 cups)
• 6 ounces turkey slices, thinly chopped
• 1 cup thinly chopped low-moisture mozzarella (or shredded mozzarella)
• 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• ¼ cup grated pecorino romano (or parmesan), plus more for serving

For the Dressing

• ⅓ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup apple vinegar vinegar
• 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this La Scala Chopped Salad is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use grilled chicken or roasted vegetables instead of turkey slices for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
• Go vegan: Skip the cheese and turkey for a lighter version that still packs plenty of flavor!
• Change up the cheese: Try feta or goat cheese instead of pecorino romano for a tangy kick.

How to Make La Scala Chopped Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

Start by adding olive oil, apple vinegar vinegar, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to the bottom of a large bowl. Whisking these ingredients together helps create a smooth dressing that coats all your lovely veggies evenly.

Step 2: Toss in Chickpeas

Add the drained chickpeas into your dressing bowl. Toss them gently until they are fully coated. This step is important because it allows those little gems to soak up all that delicious flavor!

Step 3: Combine Your Greens and Turkey

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the finely chopped iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, turkey slices, and pecorino romano (or parmesan) into the bowl. Toss everything together until all the ingredients are well mixed and coated with that tasty dressing.

Step 4: Serve with Style

Finally, top off your salad with additional pecorino romano and freshly ground black pepper if desired. This adds an extra touch of flavor right before serving—perfect for impressing your guests or treating yourself!

And there you have it! A beautiful La Scala Chopped Salad that’s sure to steal the spotlight at any gathering! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Pro Tips for Making La Scala Chopped Salad

Creating the perfect La Scala Chopped Salad is a breeze when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Use fresh ingredients: Freshly chopped vegetables and high-quality cheese make all the difference in flavor. Opt for crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes to elevate your salad.
• Chill your salad bowl: Placing your bowl in the fridge for about 15 minutes before preparing the salad will help keep your greens crisp and refreshing, especially on warm days.
• Adjust dressing to taste: Feel free to tweak the olive oil and apple vinegar ratios based on your taste preferences. This allows you to create a dressing that perfectly suits your palate.
• Add variety with toppings: Consider adding other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers, or even some nuts for crunch. This not only enhances the texture but also adds extra nutrients.
• Make it ahead of time: If you’re prepping for a gathering or meal prep, you can chop all the ingredients and store them separately. Combine them just before serving to maintain freshness.

How to Serve La Scala Chopped Salad

Presenting your La Scala Chopped Salad beautifully can turn this simple dish into a star of any meal. Here are some ideas to make it shine on your table!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling chopped parsley or basil over the top adds a burst of color and aromatic flavor that brightens up the dish.
• Extra cheese: A generous dusting of pecorino romano or parmesan right before serving gives an appealing finish and enhances the savory notes of the salad.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the flavors of the salad beautifully. Its crunchiness pairs well with the fresh ingredients.
• Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds a smoky touch that contrasts nicely with the freshness of the salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain offers a hearty side that balances well with the lighter salad. It can be flavored with herbs for an extra kick.
• Mediterranean Hummus and Pita Chips: The creaminess of hummus alongside crispy pita chips makes for a delightful dipper that guests will love, enhancing the overall dining experience.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re sure to impress family or friends with your delicious La Scala Chopped Salad! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This La Scala Chopped Salad is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste delicious, but it can also be made ahead of time, so you have a fresh and healthy option ready to go throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and freshness.
• If possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent wilting.

Freezing

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to its fresh ingredients, particularly the lettuce and tomatoes.
• If you need to freeze leftovers, consider only freezing the dressing in an airtight container. You can then prepare fresh salad greens when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
• If your salad has been chilled, let it sit out for about 10 minutes before serving to bring it back to a more enjoyable temperature.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about La Scala Chopped Salad that might help you with your preparation!

Can I substitute ingredients in the La Scala Chopped Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins. Grilled chicken or roasted veggies can be great alternatives.

How long will the La Scala Chopped Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Just remember to add the dressing right before serving!

Is La Scala Chopped Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately until you’re ready to enjoy a quick meal.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this La Scala Chopped Salad as much as I do! It’s a delightful mix of flavors and textures that makes any meal feel special. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch, dinner, or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones!