Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

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Introduction

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a beloved dish that has earned its reputation for being a refreshing, flavorful, and satisfying meal. Originating from the iconic La Scala restaurant in Beverly Hills, this salad is known for its crisp, fresh ingredients and a simple yet delicious Italian dressing that ties it all together.

The salad is a medley of chopped lettuce, ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and bell peppers, giving it a vibrant mix of colors and textures. What truly sets it apart, however, is its tangy Italian dressing, which enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables without overpowering them. The salad is often served with a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese, adding an extra layer of richness and depth.

Perfect as a stand-alone meal for a light lunch or dinner, or as a refreshing side dish to accompany grilled meats or pasta, The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a versatile and timeless choice that’s sure to please a variety of palates. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of a casual meal or serving it at a gathering, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser.

Perfect for:

  • Light lunch or dinner
  • Healthy meal prep
  • Fresh side dish for gatherings
  • A classic, crowd-pleasing salad
  • A tasty vegetarian option

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad will become a staple in your kitchen:

  • Bold, Fresh Flavors – This salad combines a medley of fresh ingredients, including crunchy vegetables, tangy cheeses, and savory dressing, giving it a bold and zesty flavor profile.
  • Perfectly Balanced – The sweet, salty, and tangy ingredients are perfectly balanced, making every bite a burst of flavor. The salad’s flavors are harmonious yet exciting.
  • Customizable – You can adjust the ingredients to your liking, whether you’re vegetarian, gluten-free, or just prefer a different cheese or protein.
  • A Healthy Choice – Packed with fresh vegetables and lean proteins (like chicken or turkey), this salad is full of nutrients that make it a healthy and satisfying meal.
  • Simple Ingredients – With simple, everyday ingredients, it’s easy to find everything you need to make this salad, without any exotic or hard-to-find items.
  • Easy to Make – You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to prepare this salad! It’s quick and easy to assemble, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
  • Great for Meal Prep – The La Scala Chopped Salad can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep or preparing lunches for the week.
  • Versatile – Serve it as a side dish with dinner or as a main course with added protein. This salad is versatile enough for any occasion.
  • Crowd-Pleaser – Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or serving it at a family gathering, this salad is sure to please a crowd.
  • Tasty Dressing – The dressing, typically made from a combination of lemon, vinegar, and oil, ties the salad together perfectly, adding just the right amount of tang and creaminess.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: None (just chopping and assembling)
  • Servings: 4-6
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Fiber, vitamins A and C, healthy fats

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 1 head Romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1/2 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/2 avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)

For the Dressing:

  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Romaine and Iceberg Lettuce: Offer crisp textures and are the perfect base for any salad.
  • Kalamata Olives: Add a Mediterranean touch with a burst of briny flavor.
  • Avocado: Provides creamy richness and healthy fats.
  • Dressing: A tangy, zesty blend that ties the salad together beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables:

  1. Chop the Lettuce:
    Wash and dry the Romaine and iceberg lettuce. Chop them into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Prepare the Veggies:
    Halve the cherry tomatoes, peel and dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, chop the celery, and halve the Kalamata olives. Add all the vegetables to the bowl with the lettuce.
  3. Add the Avocado:
    Dice the avocado and add it to the bowl just before serving to prevent browning.

Make the Dressing:

  1. Mix the Dressing:
    In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
  2. Toss the Salad:
    Drizzle the dressing over the chopped vegetables and toss the salad gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated.

Finish and Serve:

  1. Add the Parmesan (Optional):
    Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the top for added flavor and a touch of richness.
  2. Serve Immediately:
    Serve the salad right away, or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving.

How to Serve

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is perfect as:

  • A light lunch or dinner on its own.
  • A side dish to grilled meats, seafood, or sandwiches.
  • A great addition to a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Additional Tips

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, always use the freshest vegetables and herbs available. This salad is all about the freshness of its ingredients, so quality really matters.
  • Chop Evenly: The salad’s appeal lies in the even, bite-sized pieces. Use a sharp knife to chop the vegetables and herbs uniformly to ensure each bite is balanced.
  • Customize the Protein: While the classic salad uses chicken, you can also try it with grilled shrimp, turkey, or even a vegetarian option like tofu or chickpeas for a twist.
  • Make Your Own Dressing: For an extra level of flavor, make your own dressing with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a touch of Dijon mustard. It gives the salad a personal touch and a freshness that store-bought dressings can’t match.
  • Add Avocado: A few slices of creamy avocado can enhance the salad’s richness and provide healthy fats, making it more satisfying.
  • Keep the Dressing Separate: To keep the salad crisp, serve the dressing on the side, allowing each person to add their preferred amount just before eating.
  • Season Properly: Don’t skimp on seasoning. A pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper can elevate the flavors of the salad and its dressing.
  • Try Different Cheeses: While the traditional version uses Parmigiano-Reggiano, you can experiment with other cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella for a unique flavor.
  • Incorporate Grilled Vegetables: If you prefer a slightly smoky flavor, try grilling some of the vegetables (like peppers or zucchini) before chopping them into the salad.
  • Serve it Family-Style: To make the meal feel more communal and elegant, serve the salad family-style in a large bowl, letting guests help themselves and mix the ingredients together.

Recipe Variations

  • Add More Greens: Mix in arugula, spinach, or mixed greens for a different flavor.
  • Make It Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing.
  • Add Roasted Veggies: Toss in some roasted bell peppers or zucchini for extra texture and flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The avocado may brown, but the salad will still be delicious.
  • Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze the salad, as the texture of the lettuce and vegetables will suffer when thawed.

Special Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl: For combining all the salad ingredients.
  • Whisk: To make the dressing.
  • Sharp Knife: For chopping the vegetables and avocado.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use pre-washed lettuce?
    Yes, pre-washed lettuce can save time, but it may lack the crispness of freshly chopped lettuce.
  2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
    Yes! You can chop the veggies in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Just add the avocado and dressing before serving.
  3. How can I make the dressing creamy?
    Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing for a creamy texture.
  4. Can I add protein to the salad?
    Yes, grilled chicken, turkey, tuna, or chickpeas are all great protein additions.
  5. How long will the dressing last?
    The dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week in an airtight container.

Conclusion

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a vibrant and healthy meal. This salad is loaded with a mix of fresh, crunchy vegetables, complemented by savory ingredients like crisp bacon, tangy cheese, and a zesty dressing that ties everything together beautifully.

It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own as a light meal or served as a side to a heartier dish, making it ideal for everything from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings. The balance of textures and flavors—from the creamy dressing to the crisp veggies—makes each bite a satisfying experience.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking to add a fresh option to your menu, the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a go-to recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the bold and healthy flavors with every bite!

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