La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe – The Famous Hollywood Favorite

The La Scala Chopped Salad is more than just a salad—it’s a piece of Hollywood history. This crisp, flavorful dish was created at the iconic Beverly Hills restaurant, La Scala, back in the 1950s. Known for its simplicity and bold flavors, this salad has stood the test of time, becoming a favorite among celebrities and food lovers alike.

What makes this salad so special? It’s a perfect combination of textures and flavors—crunchy lettuce, salty salami, creamy mozzarella, and hearty chickpeas, all tossed in a tangy and rich dressing. It’s a salad that feels indulgent while still being fresh and light. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make at home, making it ideal for quick lunches, meal prep, or an effortless yet impressive dinner side.

I first discovered this La Scala Chopped salad while scrolling through social media. I kept seeing people rave about it, so I had to try it myself. From the very first bite, I was hooked. The combination of crisp lettuce with the sharp bite of pecorino Romano in the dressing was irresistible. It was love at first crunch. Now, this salad is on regular rotation in my kitchen, especially when I want something satisfying but not too heavy.

If you’re looking for a salad that’s refreshing, full of flavor, and easy to throw together, this is it. Whether you make it for a casual weeknight meal or serve it at a gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of salads out there, but this one is truly special. Here’s why you’ll love making (and eating) the La Scala Chopped Salad:

• It’s quick and easy – With just a few simple ingredients, you can have this salad ready in minutes.
• Incredibly flavorful – The combination of tangy dressing, salty salami, creamy mozzarella, and nutty chickpeas creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Customizable – You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your taste or dietary preferences. Swap out the salami for turkey, use a different type of cheese, or add extra veggies for a fresh twist.
• Perfect for meal prep – This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it great for meal prepping lunches for the week. Just store the dressing separately to keep the lettuce crisp.
• A restaurant-quality meal at home – This salad is famous for a reason, and now you can enjoy it in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Once you try it, you’ll understand why this salad has been a favorite for decades. It’s simple yet satisfying, and it brings a touch of elegance to any meal.

Health Benefits

Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Here’s why this dish is a great choice for a healthy, balanced meal:

• Rich in protein – The combination of chickpeas, mozzarella, and salami provides a good amount of protein, keeping you full and satisfied.
• Full of fiber – Chickpeas and lettuce add fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
• Heart-healthy fats – The olive oil in the dressing provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which are great for heart health.
• Low in carbs – While it has some carbohydrates from the chickpeas, this salad is still relatively low in carbs, making it a great option for those watching their intake.
• Loaded with vitamins and minerals – The lettuce, chickpeas, and cheese all contribute essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, folate, calcium, and magnesium.

By making a few small adjustments—such as reducing the cheese or using a leaner protein—you can tailor this salad to fit your dietary needs while still enjoying its amazing flavors.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 people
• Calories per serving: 371 kcal
• Protein: 24.7g
• Carbohydrates: 13.8g
• Fat: 24.7g
• Fiber: 4.6g
• Sodium: 1216mg

This recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy days. Plus, with its balanced nutrition, it’s a meal that you can enjoy without any guilt.

Ingredients List

For the Dressing:

• ⅓ cup 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 Parmesan)

For the Salad:

• 1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded (about 5-6 cups)
• 1 head romaine lettuce, shredded (about 4-5 cups)
• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• ¼ pound (4 ounces) Italian salami, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

These ingredients are simple but come together to create something truly special.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
2. Whisk or shake the jar with a lid until the ingredients are well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients

1. Wash and dry the iceberg and romaine lettuce. Using a sharp knife, shred them into thin strips.
2. Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Slice the salami into thin strips.
4. Shred the mozzarella cheese if it’s not pre-shredded.

3. Assemble the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded iceberg and romaine lettuce.
2. Add the chickpeas, sliced salami, and shredded mozzarella.
3. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad.
4. Toss everything well until evenly coated.

4. Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer to serving plates or bowls.
2. Garnish with extra grated cheese if desired.
3. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

This salad is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it as a side dish or with extra protein for a heartier meal. Here are some ideas:

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
• Pair with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread.
• Add avocado slices for a creamy texture.
• Sprinkle extra Pecorino Romano on top for more flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

The tangy dressing and hearty ingredients in this salad make it a great match for various dishes. Here are some perfect pairings:

• Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup or minestrone complements the fresh crunch of the salad.
• Grilled Meats: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
• Pasta: Serve it alongside a light pasta dish like lemon garlic spaghetti or penne arrabbiata.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent sogginess.
• Freezing: This salad is not suitable for freezing, as the lettuce will wilt. However, you can freeze the dressing for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: Since this is a cold salad, no reheating is needed. Just toss with fresh dressing before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though the La Scala Chopped Salad is simple to make, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your salad turns out perfectly every time.

One of the biggest mistakes is not chopping the lettuce finely enough. The key to a great chopped salad is uniformity. If the lettuce pieces are too large, they won’t mix well with the other ingredients, and you won’t get that perfect bite every time. Take the time to shred your lettuce into thin, even strips.

Another mistake is using too much or too little dressing. While the dressing is delicious, pouring too much can make the salad soggy and overpower the fresh ingredients. On the other hand, too little dressing won’t allow the flavors to blend properly. The best approach is to start with a moderate amount, toss well, and then add more if needed.

A common mistake is not draining and drying the chickpeas before adding them to the salad. Chickpeas straight from the can have extra liquid that can make the salad watery. After draining, pat them dry with a paper towel for the best texture.

Finally, making the salad too far in advance and letting it sit with the dressing on can lead to wilting. If you’re preparing this for later, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the crispness of the lettuce.

Pro Tips

To make this salad truly exceptional, consider these expert tips that will elevate both the flavor and presentation.

For extra crunch, soak the shredded lettuce in ice water for about 5 minutes before draining and drying. This helps to crisp up the leaves, giving them a fresh and crunchy texture.

Pre-chill your salad bowl before assembling the salad. A cold bowl keeps everything crisp for longer, especially if you’re serving it at a gathering.

Enhance the dressing by letting it sit for at least 10 minutes before using. This allows the flavors to meld, making the vinaigrette more balanced and flavorful. If you have time, prepare the dressing a few hours ahead for even better results.

Use freshly grated Pecorino Romano instead of pre-grated cheese. Freshly grated cheese has a much better texture and melts slightly when mixed with the dressing, adding an extra layer of richness to the salad.

If you want to make the salad heartier, add a protein boost like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a handful of toasted nuts. This makes the salad more filling and turns it into a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but to keep it fresh, store the salad ingredients and dressing separately. Toss everything together just before serving to maintain the crispness of the lettuce.

What can I use instead of salami? You can substitute turkey, grilled chicken, or even roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian option. The key is to keep the texture and flavor balance intact.

Is there a way to make this salad dairy-free? Absolutely! Just omit the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Conclusion & Call to Action

The La Scala Chopped Salad is a timeless classic that has earned its reputation as one of the most beloved salads in Hollywood. With its crisp lettuce, salty salami, creamy mozzarella, and hearty chickpeas, it offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The tangy red wine vinaigrette ties everything together, making every bite refreshing and satisfying.

This salad is not just a delicious meal; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a meal prep staple, it’s guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences. Swap out ingredients, add your favorite toppings, or adjust the dressing to make it uniquely yours.

Now that you know all the tips, tricks, and common mistakes to avoid, it’s time to make this legendary salad in your own kitchen. Try it out and experience why it has been a favorite for decades.

If you make this La Scala Chopped Salad, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below with your thoughts or any modifications you tried. If you loved the recipe, share it with friends and family so they can enjoy it too.

Don’t forget to take a picture of your finished dish and tag me on social media! I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!

Print