This colorful chopped salad is packed with fresh veggies like crunchy cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and zesty olives. It’s perfect as a side or a light meal all on its own!
I love how quick and simple it is to whip up this salad. Just chop everything, mix it up, and you’re good to go. Plus, it’s a great way to up your veggie game without any fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce: This forms the base of your salad. Romaine gives a nice crisp texture. If you can’t find romaine, fresh spinach or mixed greens can work well too!
Radicchio: Adds a pop of color and a bitter crunch. If you prefer a milder taste, iceberg lettuce is a great substitute. It’s still crunchy and complements other flavors nicely.
Salami: This ingredient offers a delicious salty kick. If you want a lighter option, try turkey or chicken salami, or even roasted chicken pieces. Veggie lovers might use roasted red peppers instead.
Cheeses: The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan is heavenly! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese alternatives or simply skip the cheese altogether.
Chickpeas: They bring protein and heartiness. You can swap them for black beans or even tofu for a different texture.
How Do I Emulsify the Dressing Properly?
Creating a smooth dressing can be tricky, but it’s essential for a great salad. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Start with the vinegar and mustard in a small bowl.
- Add the minced garlic and slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking briskly.
- Whisk until you see the dressing thickening slightly and becoming creamy. This means it’s emulsified and ready!
This technique ensures that the oil and vinegar combine well, giving you an even dressing that coats every morsel of the salad. Enjoy your fresh, vibrant meal!
Easy Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables & Greens:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, thinly sliced
- 1 cup chopped radicchio or iceberg lettuce (for color and crunch)
Protein & Dairy:
- 1/2 cup salami, julienned
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy recipe that gives you a fresh and tasty dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Greens:
Start by washing and drying the romaine and radicchio or iceberg lettuce. Once clean, thinly slice them into shreds. This will create a lovely base for your salad!
2. Adding Proteins and Cheese:
Next, take the salami and julienne it into thin strips. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced romaine, radicchio, salami, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and chickpeas. Mix these ingredients together gently.
3. Making the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is well combined and emulsified. This creates a lovely creamy texture!
4. Combining Everything:
Pour the dressing over your salad mixture. Toss everything well to make sure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. It’s all about that flavor!
5. Final Touches:
Taste your salad and adjust the salt and pepper as needed for your preference. Serve immediately to enjoy the salad at its freshest! It’s perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own.
The vibrant mix of flavors and textures in this chopped salad is not only satisfying but also looks stunning on the plate. Enjoy your Easy Famous La Scala Chopped Salad!
FAQ for Easy Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients (except for the dressing) ahead of time! Just store the chopped veggies, salami, and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Mix in the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
What Can I Substitute for Salami?
If you prefer a lighter option or don’t have salami on hand, you can use turkey or chicken salami. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, consider grilled chicken, roasted red peppers, or even crispy bacon bits!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the lettuce may lose its crispiness, so it’s best to eat it fresh!
What Variations Can I Try for This Recipe?
This salad is very versatile! Feel free to add other ingredients like diced bell peppers, cucumber, or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also switch up the cheeses by using feta or goat cheese, or experiment with different types of beans!
