Name: Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 Tablespoons red wine vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard (or 1 teaspoon dry mustard); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ⅓ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or grated Parmesan cheese); 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) Italian salami, thinly sliced; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Jump to Recipe·4 from 54 reviews

If you’ve ever wanted to impress friends or family with a delightful, fresh dish that bursts with flavor and satisfying textures, the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. This salad combines crisp iceberg and romaine lettuces with savory Italian salami, creamy mozzarella, and tangy Pecorino Romano cheese, all brought together by a perfectly balanced homemade dressing that’s bright, garlicky, and just a touch sharp. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients elevated to something truly special, making it a go-to recipe that’s as vibrant on the plate as it is on the palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl on a cloth napkin with green and white stripes sits on a white marbled surface. Inside the bowl, shredded white cheese covers one side, next to thin strips of dark red dry sausage piling on from the center to the right. Below the sausage, fresh green spinach leaves peek through, and pale chickpeas sit near the middle. A small glass jar with a yellow dressing is placed at the top right corner. A woman's hand holds a spoon that is partially visible in the top left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What makes this salad so unforgettable is the lovely harmony created by everyday ingredients that are easy to find but packed with character. Each element adds incredible depth, from the crunch of mixed lettuces to the salty richness of salami and the zing of a homemade dressing. Getting these ingredients right is the foundation for this wonderful dish.

Extra virgin olive oil: The base of the dressing, it brings smoothness and richness to bind all the flavors.
Red wine vinegar: Provides a bright acidity that makes the salad lively and refreshing.
Garlic, minced: Adds a punch of aromatic warmth, essential for a dressing with personality.
Dijon mustard: Offers a gentle heat and creamy texture that emulsifies the dressing perfectly.
Kosher salt and pepper: Season thoughtfully to balance the salad’s flavors just right.
Grated Pecorino Romano cheese: Sharp and salty, this cheese enhances the savory elements beautifully.
Shredded iceberg lettuce: Brings crisp texture and refreshing crunch to the salad.
Shredded romaine lettuce: Adds a slight bitterness and more leafy depth for contrast.
Chickpeas, drained and rinsed: These add a creamy, nutty protein component that’s filling and hearty.
Italian salami, thinly sliced: Provides a flavorful and savory meatiness that makes the salad feel indulgent.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Soft and milky, it creates a luscious balance with the sharper Pecorino.

How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up the Dressing

Start by collecting your dressing ingredients: olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Combine them in a small bowl or jar, then whisk briskly or give it a good shake with the lid on. This creates a harmonious dressing that’s both creamy and tangy, ready to bring the salad ingredients together beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in the shredded iceberg and romaine lettuces. These two greens provide that wonderful combination of crispness and fresh, leafy flavor that forms the heart of the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe.

Step 3: Add the Protein and Cheese

Next, throw in the rinsed chickpeas for a protein punch and a slightly nutty note. Layer on the thinly sliced Italian salami, which brings a savory richness and a pop of meaty goodness. Finally, top with the shredded mozzarella cheese to mellow and soften the bold flavors just enough without overpowering.

Step 4: Dress and Toss

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated. This step is crucial, as the dressing ensures every bite is bursting with flavor while the texture remains varied and exciting. To finish, sprinkle the grated Pecorino Romano over the salad for a sharp, briny finish that ties it all together.

How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

A white bowl filled with a fresh salad that has three main layers: a base layer of thinly sliced green leafy vegetables, a middle layer with small round beige chickpeas, and a top layer scattered with thin, dark red strips of cured meat and light-colored shredded cheese. The salad is lightly sprinkled with grated cheese or a similar fine topping. The bowl sits on a beige cloth with green stripes, all placed on a white marbled surface. A black spoon is partially inside the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Feel free to add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a few fresh basil leaves on top for an herbaceous lift. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving can add a glossy appeal and an extra touch of richness that guests will appreciate.

Side Dishes

This fantastic salad shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread or a cozy bowl of minestrone soup. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables to round out the Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve this salad in individual clear glass bowls or mason jars to showcase all the colorful ingredients. Alternatively, you can arrange the salad on a large platter for a family-style presentation—either way, its vibrant colors and textures will make it the centerpiece of any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume within 1-2 days to preserve the crispness of the lettuce and the bright flavor of the dressing.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well because of its fresh greens and delicate cheeses, which can lose their texture and flavor. So, plan to make just enough for your meal or store components separately if needed.

Reheating

Since this is a cold salad, reheating isn’t recommended. However, if you have leftover protein or salami, these can be warmed separately and added fresh to a newly tossed salad for a slightly different take on the classic Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use different types of lettuce for the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! While iceberg and romaine are traditional for their texture, feel free to experiment with crisp varieties like butter lettuce or even radicchio for a slightly bitter kick.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

This recipe includes Italian salami, which is meat, but you can omit it or replace it with a plant-based substitute to make a delicious vegetarian version.

How can I make the dressing creamier?

Adding a small spoonful of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing can create a richer, creamier texture without overpowering the other flavors.

Can I prepare the salad in advance?

You can chop the lettuce and prepare the dressing ahead of time, but combine and dress the salad just before serving to keep it crisp and fresh.

What can I substitute for Pecorino Romano cheese?

Grated Parmesan cheese is a great substitute that provides a similar salty, nutty flavor; just use the same quantity for best results.

Final Thoughts

There’s something genuinely joyful about sharing a salad as vibrant and flavorful as the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe. It’s an effortless crowd-pleaser that balances bold, savory ingredients with fresh, crisp greens and a dazzling homemade dressing. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight meal or presenting it at a festive gathering, this salad promises to become one of your favorites, too—so give it a try and watch it quickly become a staple on your table!

Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need