This Easy La Scala Chopped Salad is fresh and colorful! It includes crunchy veggies, tasty salami, and creamy cheese, all tossed in a zesty dressing. Perfect for lunch or dinner!
Every bite is like a party in your mouth! 🎉 I love making it ahead of time because it just gets better as it sits in the fridge. Easy peasy and so delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine and Iceberg Lettuce: These greens provide crunch and freshness. If you can’t find them, spinach or mixed salad greens work well, offering a slightly different texture.
Salami: I love using sliced salami for its smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken deli meat can be a great substitute, or you can skip the meat altogether for a veggie version.
Chickpeas: These add a nice heartiness to the salad. Canned chickpeas save time but cooked lentils are a tasty alternative. You can also skip beans if you’re avoiding carbs.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan lend creaminess and depth. Feel free to use feta for a bit of tanginess or vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
Italian Dressing: You can make it from scratch with olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs. A store-bought lite version also works if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Balance of Flavors in a Salad?
Getting the flavors right in a salad can take a little practice but here’s how! Focus on balancing the crunchy, creamy, and salty components. Start by layering the base with lettuces and then add heartier ingredients like salami and chickpeas. This structure keeps the salad from wilting.
- Use fresh, crisp vegetables to keep your salad lively.
- Dress the salad just before serving to prevent sogginess. If making ahead, keep the dressing on the side until you’re ready to eat.
- Always taste! Adjust seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or dressing as needed.
Easy La Scala Chopped Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups shredded or chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/3 cup sliced or julienned salami strips
- 1/2 cup cooked or canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and you can chill the salad for 30 minutes to let all the flavors blend together perfectly. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Greens:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and adding the shredded romaine lettuce and iceberg lettuce. These greens are the base of your salad and will give it a nice crunch.
2. Add in the Good Stuff:
Next, toss in the sliced salami strips and chickpeas. The salami adds a savory touch, and the chickpeas give it a delightful heartiness!
3. Cheese It Up:
Now sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the mix. Cheese makes everything better, right?
4. Dress It Up:
Pour the Italian dressing over all the ingredients in the bowl. This is where the magic happens; the dressing ties all the flavors together.
5. Toss to Combine:
Gently toss everything together until the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. You want all those vibrant colors and flavors to mix well.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Now’s the time to taste your salad! Add salt and fresh black pepper according to your preference. Maybe it needs a little more zing, or perhaps just a pinch of salt!
7. Serve or Chill:
You can serve the salad immediately for a fresh crunch, or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully. Either way, it’s delicious!
Enjoy this colorful and satisfying La Scala Chopped Salad as a refreshing side or a standalone meal. It’s easy to make and sure to be a hit! 😊
FAQ for Easy La Scala Chopped Salad
Can I Use a Different Type of Lettuce?
Absolutely! While romaine and iceberg work great for this salad, you can substitute it with any crisp greens like green leaf, butter lettuce, or even spinach for a different texture.
How to Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Simply omit the salami! You can replace it with additional chickpeas for protein or even add some diced bell peppers or avocado for extra flavor and texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad will soften as it sits, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you’re planning to save some, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat!
Can I Use Homemade Italian Dressing?
Yes, homemade Italian dressing is a great option! Just whisk together olive oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano, and any other herbs you like. This way, you can control the flavors and ingredients to match your taste!
