La Scala Chopped Salad (Famous Recipe)

Here’s how to make the famous La Scala Chopped Salad at home with easy steps! Enjoyed by A-lister celebrities, it’s a simple and delicious salad, packed full of flavor, and perfect to enjoy as a meal or side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad takes only 17 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh Ingredients: Loaded with crisp vegetables and fresh mozzarella, the La Scala Chopped Salad is both healthy and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or a delightful side dish that pairs well with any meal.
• Flavorful Dressing: The homemade dressing combines olive oil, apple vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey for a perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
• Celebrity Favorite: This salad is loved by many celebrities, adding a touch of glamour to your dining experience.

Tools and Preparation

To create the La Scala Chopped Salad effortlessly, a few essential tools will make your preparation easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Large salad bowl
• Small jar or bowl for dressing
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring clean cuts for the freshest texture in your salad.
• Large salad bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Small jar or bowl for dressing: This helps to combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Ingredients

Fresh Vegetables and Cheese

• 1 head iceberg lettuce
• ½ head romaine lettuce
• 3.5oz / 100g fresh mozzarella ball or shredded mozzarella cheese

Protein Source

• 15oz / 425g can of garbanzo beans / chickpeas – drained

Flavor Boosters

• 6 pieces of sun-dried tomatoes
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple vinegar
• 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
• 1-2 teaspoons honey

Finishing Touches

• ¼ cup finely grated parmesan cheese or pecorino romano cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make La Scala Chopped Salad (Famous Recipe)

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. Add the dressing ingredients—olive oil, apple vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey—to a small jar or bowl.
2. Whisk together until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chickpeas

1. Place the drained chickpeas in a large bowl.
2. Pour 2–3 tablespoons of the prepared dressing over them and mix gently.
3. Set aside to marinate while preparing the rest of the salad.

Step 3: Prepare the Mozzarella Cheese

1. If using fresh mozzarella, slice into strips or cubes.
2. Place on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.

Step 4: Chop the Lettuce

1. Finely chop up both the iceberg and romaine lettuces.
2. Add them to a large salad bowl.

Step 5: Add Other Ingredients

1. Slice sun-dried tomatoes into thin strips (scissors work great for this).
2. Add the sliced sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella to the lettuce bowl.
3. Pour in the remaining dressing and toss everything together until well coated.

Now you have your delicious La Scala Chopped Salad ready to serve! Enjoy this refreshing dish as part of any meal or on its own!

How to Serve La Scala Chopped Salad (Famous Recipe)

La Scala Chopped Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Its vibrant ingredients and hearty flavors make it perfect for any occasion, whether as a main meal or a side dish.

As a Standalone Meal

• This salad can be enjoyed on its own for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner option.

With Grilled Chicken

• Adding grilled chicken breast enhances the protein content and makes the salad more filling.

As a Side Dish

• Serve it alongside your favorite grilled meats or fish for a delicious complement to your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Pairing with crusty bread or garlic bread makes for a satisfying combination, perfect for soaking up the dressing.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling in wraps or pita pockets for an easy, on-the-go meal option.

How to Perfect La Scala Chopped Salad (Famous Recipe)

To create the best version of La Scala Chopped Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance the flavor and texture of your salad.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerating the salad for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Customize your toppings: Feel free to add additional toppings like avocado or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Adjust the dressing: Taste your dressing as you go and adjust the acidity with more vinegar or sweetness with honey based on your preference.
• Perfectly chop ingredients: Aim for uniform pieces when chopping veggies to ensure every bite is balanced in flavor.
• Experiment with cheeses: While mozzarella is classic, try other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for different taste profiles.

Best Side Dishes for La Scala Chopped Salad (Famous Recipe)

Pairing La Scala Chopped Salad with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread

2. This warm, crispy bread pairs wonderfully with the fresh flavors of the salad.

3. Grilled Vegetables

4. A medley of seasonal grilled veggies adds smoky depth and richness to your meal.

5. Quinoa Pilaf

6. Light and nutritious, quinoa pilaf offers a protein-packed side that complements the salad’s freshness perfectly.

7. Roasted Chicken Thighs

8. Juicy roasted chicken thighs provide hearty satisfaction alongside this bright salad.

9. Stuffed Bell Peppers

10. Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, or vegetables create a vibrant addition to your table.

11. Baked Sweet Potatoes

12. The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes balances well with the tangy notes of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making La Scala Chopped Salad, a few common pitfalls can affect the taste and presentation. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Using wilted greens: Freshness is key for this salad. Always choose crisp and vibrant lettuce leaves to ensure a refreshing flavor.
• Skipping the marination: Allowing the chickpeas to marinate in the dressing enhances their flavor. Don’t rush this step; let them soak for at least 15 minutes.
• Not draining ingredients: Ensure that canned chickpeas and mozzarella are well-drained. Excess moisture can make the salad soggy.
• Overdressing the salad: While dressing adds flavor, too much can overwhelm the dish. Start with less and add more if needed.
• Ignoring ingredient ratios: Balance is crucial in salads. Pay attention to how much of each ingredient you add for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 2-3 days for the best quality.
• Keep dressing separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing La Scala Chopped Salad (Famous Recipe)

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to its fresh ingredients.
• If freezing, consider only freezing the chickpeas separately.

Reheating La Scala Chopped Salad (Famous Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), spread salad on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 20-30 seconds, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place salad in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is La Scala Chopped Salad (Famous Recipe)?

La Scala Chopped Salad is a refreshing and hearty salad featuring chopped lettuces, chickpeas, mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and a tangy dressing.

Can I customize La Scala Chopped Salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like avocado or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I serve La Scala Chopped Salad?

Serve it chilled as a main dish or as a side salad with grilled chicken or fish.

What dressing goes well with La Scala Chopped Salad?

The recipe includes an olive oil and apple vinegar dressing which complements the flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

La Scala Chopped Salad is not only delicious but also versatile; it’s perfect as a standalone meal or as a vibrant side dish. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste preferences!