If you’re anything like me, there are few things more satisfying than a salad that’s packed with flavor, texture, and a little bit of history. Enter the La Scala Chopped Salad—a dish that’s equal parts iconic and delicious. This salad became a celebrity favorite thanks to its origins at the famous La Scala restaurant in Beverly Hills. But the best part? You don’t need to live in California or have a reservation to enjoy it.
This salad is a symphony of finely chopped romaine lettuce, savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and garbanzo beans, all brought together with a tangy Dijon mustard vinaigrette. It’s simple yet so well-balanced, making it the kind of recipe you’ll want to make on repeat. What makes it extra special is how customizable it is—whether you’re serving it as a side for a family dinner or upgrading it to a hearty main course.
The first time I had this salad, I was struck by how each bite felt so intentional. There’s no scrambling for the perfect forkful because every ingredient is chopped to perfection, ensuring a little bit of everything in each bite. It’s become a staple in my household, not just for its incredible taste but because it’s so easy to throw together. So, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something fresh for lunch, this is the salad for you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with the La Scala Chopped Salad. First, it’s ridiculously easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick homemade dressing, you’ve got yourself a salad that tastes restaurant-worthy.
Another reason? It’s family-friendly. Even the pickiest eaters can’t resist the combination of creamy mozzarella, tangy dressing, and hearty garbanzo beans. Plus, the finely chopped ingredients make it easy for everyone to enjoy without wrestling with oversized lettuce leaves.
Let’s not forget the versatility. This salad can be served as-is for a light meal or dressed up with extras like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for something more filling. And then there’s the flavor—each bite is a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and creamy goodness.
Finally, it’s great for entertaining. Imagine serving a beautiful bowl of this salad at your next dinner party. It’s impressive yet effortless, and your guests will undoubtedly ask for the recipe.
Prep Time and Nutrition
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories Per Serving: 350
Protein: 16g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fat: 25g
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salad:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, finely chopped (the crunchier, the better!)
- 1 cup salami, diced (opt for turkey or beef salami for a halal version)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, diced or grated (fresh mozzarella works beautifully)
- 1 (15 oz) can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed (these add a creamy, nutty flavor)
- Optional: ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved; ¼ cup pepperoncini, sliced; or ½ cucumber, diced
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil (the base for a silky-smooth dressing)
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar (for that zesty kick)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (the secret to a tangy, emulsified dressing)
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced (freshly minced garlic adds bold flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste (adjust to your preference)
- Optional: A pinch of dried oregano for a hint of Italian flair
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing
Start by making the dressing so the flavors have a chance to meld. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of oregano for an extra layer of flavor. Whisk until the dressing is fully emulsified, then set it aside. - Chop and Assemble the Salad
Now for the fun part—assembling the salad. Start by finely chopping the romaine lettuce. The key here is to chop everything small so you get a little bit of everything in each bite. Next, dice the salami and mozzarella into small cubes. Rinse and drain the garbanzo beans, then add them to a large salad bowl along with the romaine, salami, and mozzarella. If you’re using any optional add-ins like cherry tomatoes, pepperoncini, or cucumbers, toss them in at this stage. - Toss and Serve
When you’re ready to serve, pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated. If you prefer a slightly chilled salad, you can refrigerate it for up to two hours before serving—this also allows the flavors to develop further. Plate the salad and enjoy immediately for maximum freshness.
Tips for the Perfect La Scala Chopped Salad
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Since this salad has such simple components, the quality of each ingredient really shines through. Go for fresh, crisp romaine, good-quality mozzarella, and a flavorful olive oil.
- Don’t Skip the Dijon Mustard: It’s the magic ingredient that makes the dressing emulsify perfectly and adds that tangy flavor.
- Chop Everything Finely: The key to the signature La Scala style is ensuring every ingredient is finely chopped. This makes each bite perfectly balanced and easy to eat.
- Make the Dressing Ahead: The vinaigrette can be prepared up to five days in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using.
- Refrigerate for Extra Flavor: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for an hour or two allows the dressing to soak into the ingredients, enhancing the overall taste.
Variations to Try
This salad is endlessly versatile, so don’t be afraid to experiment with your own variations.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the salami and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a hearty, meat-free option.
- Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken, turkey, or even shrimp to turn this into a filling main course.
- Gluten-Free: Make sure to use gluten-free Dijon mustard and pair the salad with gluten-free crackers or bread if serving as part of a meal.
- Spicy Twist: Toss in a few red pepper flakes or use spicy turkey salami for a little heat.
- Cheese Swap: Provolone, Parmesan, or even feta can be used in place of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
How to Serve
This salad works well in so many different settings. For a casual weeknight dinner, serve it alongside a simple soup or some crusty bread. Hosting a gathering? Pair it with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or pasta for a well-rounded spread. It’s also a great option for potlucks—just bring the dressing separately and toss it in before serving to keep everything fresh.
For something a little different, try serving the salad in individual portions for a plated appetizer. It’s an elegant touch that’s perfect for dinner parties.
Storing and Making Ahead
Leftovers? No problem. Store any remaining salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, though keep in mind that the lettuce may lose some of its crunch over time. If you’re planning to make this ahead, keep the dressing separate and only toss it in when you’re ready to serve.
You can also freeze the dressing in a small container and thaw it as needed, though the salad itself is best enjoyed fresh.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought dressing?
Absolutely! While homemade dressing tastes amazing, a good-quality store-bought Italian dressing can work in a pinch.
What can I substitute for garbanzo beans?
White beans, like cannellini or navy beans, are a great substitute if you’re not a fan of garbanzo beans.
Is this salad kid-friendly?
Yes! You can customize the ingredients to suit your kids’ preferences—maybe skip the pepperoncini or add more mozzarella for a creamy touch.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Simply skip the cheese and salami, and use a vegan mustard for the dressing. Add roasted vegetables or marinated tofu for extra flavor.
Can I serve this warm?
While the salad is traditionally served cold, you could warm up the garbanzo beans and toss them with the dressing for a cozy twist.
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited to try this recipe as I am to share it! The La Scala Chopped Salad is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in the most delicious way. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or enjoying it solo, this salad is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Don’t forget to share your creations! Snap a picture, post it on social media, and tag me—I love seeing how you bring this recipe to life. Happy chopping!
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La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe – Easy and Flavorful
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
The La Scala Chopped Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying salad made with finely chopped romaine lettuce, salami, mozzarella, and garbanzo beans, tossed in a tangy Dijon vinaigrette. Perfect for both casual meals and entertaining, this classic dish is simple to prepare and endlessly customizable.
Ingredients
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, finely chopped
- 1 cup salami, diced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, diced or grated
- 1 (15 oz) can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
- Optional: cherry tomatoes, pepperoncini, cucumber
Dressing Ingredients:
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of dried oregano
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- In a large salad bowl, combine romaine lettuce, salami, mozzarella, garbanzo beans, and any optional add-ins.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to enhance flavors.
Notes
- For a halal version, substitute pork-based salami with turkey or beef salami.
- Store leftover salad in the fridge for up to 2 days (dressing separately if possible).
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad, Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American