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If you’ve ever dined at the legendary La Scala in Beverly Hills, you know their iconic Chopped Salad is a showstopper. Now, you can recreate this famous salad at home with our easy-to-follow recipe! Packed with crisp veggies, savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy mustard vinaigrette, this salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a light yet satisfying meal, this La Scala Chopped Salad will transport you to culinary heaven. Let’s get chopping!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This La Scala Chopped Salad is a must-try for so many reasons:

Iconic Flavor: Recreate the taste of a legendary restaurant in your own kitchen.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes—no cooking required!
Perfect Balance: A harmonious blend of fresh, savory, and tangy flavors.
Versatile: Great as a side dish, light lunch, or main course.
Crowd-Pleasing: A hit at parties, potlucks, and family dinners.
Nutritious: Packed with fresh veggies, protein, and healthy fats.
Customizable: Easily adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

The Story Behind La Scala’s Chopped Salad

La Scala, a Beverly Hills institution since 1956, is famous for its timeless Italian cuisine and celebrity clientele. Their Chopped Salad has become a signature dish, beloved for its simplicity and bold flavors. The secret lies in the perfect combination of fresh ingredients and a tangy, mustard-based dressing. With this recipe, you can bring a taste of Hollywood glamour to your table!

Ingredients for La Scala Chopped Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this iconic salad:

For the Salad:

4 cups romaine lettuce, finely chopped
1 cup iceberg lettuce, finely chopped
1 cup cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup salami, diced (use high-quality Italian salami for best results)
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey or sugar
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, iceberg lettuce, chickpeas, salami, mozzarella cheese, red onion, pepperoncini peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Toss gently to mix.

2. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

3. Assemble the Salad:

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.

Tips for the Perfect La Scala Chopped Salad

Chop Evenly: Ensure all ingredients are finely and evenly chopped for the best texture.
Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality salami, mozzarella, and veggies for authentic flavor.
Make It Ahead: Prepare the salad and dressing separately, then combine just before serving to keep it crisp.
Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
Customize: Swap out ingredients to suit your taste—try adding olives, artichoke hearts, or avocado.
Serve Chilled: For the best experience, chill your salad ingredients before assembling.

Serving Suggestions

This La Scala Chopped Salad is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats, pasta, or pizza for a complete meal.
As a Main Course: Add extra protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
At a Party: Serve it as a refreshing appetizer or side dish at your next gathering.
With Bread: Enjoy it with a slice of crusty Italian bread or garlic bread for a restaurant-style experience.
For Meal Prep: Pack it in individual containers for a quick and healthy lunch option.

Variations to Try

This recipe is endlessly customizable. Here are some fun twists to keep things exciting:

Vegetarian Option: Skip the salami and add extra chickpeas or roasted veggies.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Mediterranean Twist: Swap the salami for diced ham or prosciutto and add Kalamata olives.
Cheesy Delight: Use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Low-Carb Version: Skip the chickpeas and add more veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers.
Vegan Option: Replace the mozzarella with vegan cheese and omit the salami.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the salad and dressing separately, then combine just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Q: What can I use instead of salami?
A: You can substitute salami with diced ham, turkey, or even crispy bacon.

Q: Is this salad gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your dressing ingredients are gluten-free.

Q: How long does this salad keep in the fridge?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day.

Q: Can I add more veggies?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add cucumbers, bell peppers, or avocado for extra freshness.

Q: Can I use a different dressing?
A: While the mustard vinaigrette is classic, you can use Italian dressing or a lemon-herb vinaigrette if preferred.

Why This Recipe is a Winner

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a flavor-packed, nutrient-rich dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish, a healthy lunch, or a potluck showstopper, this salad has you covered.

Ready to Make This Iconic Salad?

Grab your ingredients and get chopping! This La Scala Chopped Salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to share your creations with us—tag us on social media or leave a comment below. We’d love to hear how you enjoyed it!

For more delicious salad recipes, check out our Classic Caesar Salad or Mediterranean Quinoa Salad.