La Scala Chopped Salad with Italian Salami Recipe

If you dream of a salad that’s crisp, savory, and positively bursting with old Hollywood glamour, the La Scala Chopped Salad with Italian Flair will absolutely sweep you off your feet. This legendary mix of crunchy lettuces, tangy cheese, salami, chickpeas, and zesty dressing is as easy to make as it is impossibly delicious—no wonder it’s a perennial favorite at the famed La Scala restaurant and at home!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This is one of those glorious salads where each ingredient truly matters—simple components, all doing their part for big flavor and plenty of color. Let’s break down what you’ll need for the classic La Scala Chopped Salad with Italian Flair and why each one makes this recipe shine.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds luxurious body and fruity notes to the dressing.
• Red Wine Vinegar: Brings zip and just the right tangy brightness—essential for Italian-style salads.
• Minced Garlic: Raw garlic gives the dressing its assertive, unmistakable savoriness.
• Dijon Mustard (or Dry Mustard): Creamy, lightly spicy, and acts as an emulsifier for a thick, luscious dressing.
• Kosher Salt & Pepper: Don’t skimp—well-seasoned greens are a must!
• Grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan Cheese: For salty richness and a touch of umami (either cheese works beautifully).
• Iceberg Lettuce: Classic, extra crunchy, and cold—it soaks up the dressing in the best way.
• Romaine Lettuce: Lends a green, slightly bitter edge and sturdy bite.
• Chickpeas: The key bean! Their subtle nuttiness and creamy texture make this salad hearty and totally unique.
• Italian Salami: Look for thinly sliced salami near the specialty cheese section—adds irresistible savory depth.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The mellow, stretchy cheese that finishes the whole dish with a milky softness.

Variations

What I love most about the La Scala Chopped Salad with Italian Flair is how flexible it is—feel empowered to make it all your own. Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or just craving a little twist, there are so many fun ways to customize this Hollywood classic.

• Vegetarian Version: Leave out the salami and add extra chickpeas or a favorite marinated artichoke for more plant-based goodness.
• Protein Swap: Try grilled chicken breast, thinly sliced turkey, or even roasted shrimp for a new flavor without losing heartiness.
• Cheese Adventure: Substitute sharp provolone or creamy burrata for a different Italian cheese vibe.
• No-Mayo Creamy Dressing: Stir a spoonful of Greek yogurt into the dressing for extra creaminess and tang—still totally Italian-inspired!
• Add More Veggies: Toss in diced tomatoes, sliced pepperoncini, or roasted red peppers for extra color and zip.

How to Make La Scala Chopped Salad with Italian Flair

Step 1: Whisk Up the Zesty Italian Dressing

Begin by adding extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan into a small bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Whisk vigorously (or shake enthusiastically if using a jar!) until the dressing looks creamy and everything is thoroughly combined. This step takes just a minute but makes all the difference in flavor, so take a deep breath and savor those garlicky, tangy aromas.

Step 2: Shred and Combine the Lettuce

On a large cutting board, thinly shred both the iceberg and romaine lettuces—aim for ribbons about the width of a pencil. Place them into your largest salad bowl. Using pre-shredded lettuce is a speedy shortcut, but fresh-cut lettuce results in the best, crispest texture.

Step 3: Add Chickpeas, Salami, and Mozzarella

Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly, then scatter them over the lettuces. Add the thinly sliced (preferably bite-sized) Italian salami, followed by a generous cloud of shredded mozzarella cheese. Try to distribute everything evenly for the classic La Scala “chopped” style, which means every mouthful is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Dress and Toss

Give your dressing one last shake or stir, then drizzle it over the salad. Using large salad tongs or impeccably clean hands, toss everything together until every leafy bit and all the toppings are slicked with that dreamy dressing. The key here is not to overdress—start with half the dressing and add more to taste.

Step 5: Serve Immediately and Savor

Transfer the finished La Scala Chopped Salad with Italian Flair to plates or a serving platter. I recommend digging in right away while the lettuce is crispiest and the cheese is just starting to mingle with the dressing. Perfection!

How to Serve La Scala Chopped Salad with Italian Flair

Garnishes

You can add a final flourish to your La Scala Chopped Salad with Italian Flair by sprinkling a touch more Pecorino Romano or Parmesan over the top just before serving. A few grinds of black pepper or a scattering of chopped fresh parsley add great color and an aromatic lift, making the salad as beautiful as it is tasty.

Side Dishes

This lively chopped salad is a star on its own, but it pairs like a dream with crusty Italian bread, focaccia, or garlic knots. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a bowl of minestrone, a simple pasta, or grilled chicken—the flavors never compete and all have that unmistakable Italian flair.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping presentation, pile the salad high on a large platter and let everyone serve themselves “family-style.” Or, serve individual portions in wide, shallow bowls so that every layer and topping is on display—perfect for fancy lunches or dinner parties! Little mason jars also make a fun grab-and-go option for picnics or potlucks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover salad (already dressed) will keep reasonably well in the fridge for up to 1-2 days, though the lettuces will lose a bit of their snap. If you anticipate leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate and combine just before eating for the best texture.

Freezing

Salads like this one—especially with lettuce, cheese, and salami—do not freeze well, as the crisp veggies and cheese become soggy and unappealing once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh and vibrant!

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature—no need (or benefit) to reheating. If you’re pulling it straight from the fridge, let it sit for a few minutes so the flavors and dressing bloom before you dig in.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you’ll give this La Scala Chopped Salad with Italian Flair a place at your table. Whether you’re feeding a crew or just treating yourself to something special, it delivers the perfect balance of ease, comfort, and flavor—Hollywood legend status, now homemade. Buon appetito!

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