Description
The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a vibrant and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines two types of crisp lettuce, savory Italian salami, creamy mozzarella, and tangy chickpeas, all tossed in a zesty homemade dressing made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and mustard. This refreshing chopped salad is perfect as a light lunch or a hearty side, offering a delightful mix of textures and balanced flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Dressing
- â…“ 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
- â…“ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese or grated Parmesan cheese
Salad
- 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
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard (or dry mustard), kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously or close the jar lid tightly and shake until the dressing is well-emulsified and smooth.
- Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded iceberg lettuce, shredded romaine lettuce, drained and rinsed chickpeas, thinly sliced Italian salami, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated and mixed.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the Italian salami or replace it with marinated tofu or roasted chickpeas.
- Use freshly grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese for the best flavor in the dressing.
- Adjust the amount of mustard in the dressing to taste, starting with less if preferred milder flavor.
- This salad is best served fresh to maintain the crispness of the lettuce.
- For additional texture and flavor, consider adding chopped red onions or roasted red peppers.
