La Scala Chopped Salad is not just a dish; it’s a vibrant celebration of fresh ingredients, a culinary journey that transports you right to the heart of Southern California. Originating from the iconic La Scala restaurant in Beverly Hills, this salad has gained a devoted following for its perfect balance of flavor and texture. People love the La Scala Chopped Salad for its refreshing crunch and the way it brings together an array of colorful vegetables, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Whether you’re enjoying a light lunch or serving it as a side for dinner, this salad has become a staple for those seeking a delicious yet wholesome meal.
What Is La Scala Chopped Salad
The La Scala Chopped Salad is a delightful mix of finely chopped ingredients, including crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and savory red onions, all harmoniously tossed together. What sets it apart from similar salads is its unique blend of flavors and textures, enhanced by the addition of garbanzo beans and a tangy dressing that ties everything together. Unlike bulky salads that can feel heavy, this chopped salad is light and refreshing, making it perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Easy to prepare – just chop, mix, and serve!
- Deliciously satisfying, perfect for any meal.
- Family-friendly – kids love the colorful veggies!
- Versatile – customize it with your favorite ingredients.
How Does It Taste?
The flavor profile of La Scala Chopped Salad is a delightful medley of sweet, savory, and tangy notes. The crispness of the lettuce and cucumbers provides a refreshing crunch, while the tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. The garbanzo beans bring a hearty element, and the dressing—often a zesty vinaigrette—adds just the right amount of tang to elevate every bite. With each forkful, you’ll experience a satisfying combination of textures that makes this salad a true standout.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Here are a few key ingredients that make it a nutritious choice:
- Romaine Lettuce: High in vitamins A and K, promoting healthy vision and bone health.
- Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is great for heart health.
- Cucumbers: Hydrating and low in calories, making them perfect for weight management.
- Garbanzo Beans: High in protein and fiber, they help keep you full and satisfied.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 head of Romaine lettuce – crisp and refreshing, provides the base for the salad.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes – sweet and juicy, adding vibrant color and flavor.
- 1 cucumber, diced – adds crunch and coolness to the mix.
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped – brings a sharp bite that complements the other ingredients.
- 1 cup cooked and diced chicken breast – a great source of protein to make the salad more filling.
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced – contributes a briny flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 cup garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained and rinsed – adds heartiness and fiber.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese – provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar – adds acidity to balance the flavors.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil – enriches the salad with healthy fats and a smooth texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential for enhancing all the flavors in the salad.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – for combining all the ingredients.
- Cutting board and knife – for chopping veggies and proteins.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate amounts of ingredients.
- Salad tongs or serving spoon – for serving the salad.
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Protein options: Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp or diced turkey for variety.
- Dairy-free option: Omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- For a spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Herbs: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Make La Scala Chopped Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by thoroughly washing the Romaine lettuce and patting it dry. Chop it into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large mixing bowl. Next, slice the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion, then add these colorful ingredients to the bowl with the lettuce.
Step 2: Add the Proteins and Beans
Dice the cooked chicken breast into small chunks and add it to the salad bowl along with the drained and rinsed garbanzo beans. The combination of protein will make the salad more satisfying and nutritious.
Step 3: Incorporate the Olives and Cheese
Add the sliced kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese to the salad. These ingredients will provide depth and richness to the overall flavor profile.
Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. The dressing should be well-mixed and emulsified to ensure every bite of the salad is flavorful.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the mixing bowl. Using salad tongs or a serving spoon, gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing. This process is vital for achieving a harmonious balance of flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once tossed, serve the La Scala Chopped Salad immediately for the freshest taste. If desired, you can garnish it with additional feta or herbs on top for a beautiful presentation.
What to Serve With
This vibrant salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as steak or chicken, and works wonderfully as a side dish for barbecue or Mediterranean meals. For drinks, consider serving it with a light white wine, sparkling water, or a refreshing iced tea.
Tips for Success
- Ensure all vegetables are dry before mixing to prevent a soggy salad.
- Chop ingredients uniformly for an appealing presentation and consistent flavor in each bite.
- Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes after tossing to let the flavors meld together.
- Always taste the dressing before adding it to the salad; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overdressing the salad can lead to soggy greens; start with less dressing and add more as needed.
- Not using fresh ingredients will impact the overall taste; always opt for the freshest produce.
- Chopping vegetables too small can make the salad mushy; keep pieces a bit larger for texture.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the freshness of the greens.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat it. If you’ve added warm ingredients like grilled chicken, allow them to cool before mixing to prevent wilting the salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, but dress it just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.
- What other proteins work well in this salad? Diced turkey, grilled shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option are great alternatives.
- Can I add more veggies? Absolutely! Bell peppers, radishes, or even shredded carrots can enhance the flavor and nutrition.
- Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nutritional Info
This La Scala Chopped Salad is approximately 350 calories per serving, with about 20g of protein, 15g of fat, and 30g of carbohydrates. It’s a balanced meal that offers a good dose of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for any day!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish that embodies the essence of summer, the La Scala Chopped Salad is an absolute must-try! This delightful salad brings together a colorful medley of fresh ingredients that not only tantalize your taste buds but also nourish your body. The combination of crisp romaine, ripe tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers, all brought to life with a zesty dressing, makes every bite a celebration of flavor. Plus, the addition of hearty ingredients ensures that this salad is satisfying enough to be enjoyed as a stand-alone meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a healthy dinner, the La Scala Chopped Salad is sure to impress. So grab your chopping board, unleash your culinary creativity, and let this salad shine on your table!
La Scala Chopped Salad
A vibrant and refreshing chopped salad featuring a mix of crisp greens, savory ingredients, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- {‘name’: ‘Dressing’, ‘itemListElement’: [‘⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil’, ‘3 tablespoons red wine vinegar’, ‘2 cloves garlic, minced’, ‘3 teaspoons Dijon mustard’, ‘½ teaspoon kosher salt’, ‘½ teaspoon black pepper’, ‘⅓ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese’]}
- {‘name’: ‘Salad’, ‘itemListElement’: [‘1 head shredded iceberg lettuce (5-6 cups)’, ‘1 head shredded romaine lettuce (4-5 cups)’, ‘1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed’, ‘¼ lb (4 ounces) beef salami, thinly sliced’, ‘2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese’]}
Instructions
-
Step 1
For the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir in cheese. -
Step 2
For the Salad: In a large bowl, combine iceberg and romaine lettuce, chickpeas, and salami. -
Step 3
Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine. -
Step 4
Serve immediately.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.