Classic Chopped Salad Recipe Inspired by the Viral La Scala Favorite

Benefits and Advantages of Scala Chopped Salad

The Scala chopped salad stands out for its ease of preparation, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals seeking a quick yet nutritious meal. Its ingredients are fresh and wholesome, providing essential nutrients and promoting good health. This salad is versatile and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences, which adds to its appeal. The combination of crisp vegetables and flavorful dressings not only enhances taste but also contributes to a balanced diet, rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Essential Ingredients for Scala Chopped Salad

This recipe calls for fresh, quality ingredients that come together to create a vibrant and satisfying salad:

• Shredded iceberg lettuce (for the signature crispness)
• About 5 cups shredded romaine lettuce (optional for added freshness)
• ¼ lb (4 ounces) Italian salami, sliced into thin strips
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 (15-ounce) can garbanzo beans (chickpeas), rinsed and well-drained
• Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions (optional for additional crunch and flavor)

For the dressing:

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ to ⅓ cup red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 2 to 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves minced fresh garlic
• ⅓ cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

For a vegan version, substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese alternatives or omit cheese altogether. Gluten-free options exist by selecting gluten-free dressings or omitting croutons if added. Light olive oil and fresh lemon juice can be used for a lower-calorie dressing variant.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Scala Chopped Salad

Scala chopped salad is highly adaptable to meet various dietary needs without compromising its deliciousness and texture:

• Vegan: Replace dairy-based mozzarella cheese with firm tofu or nut-based vegan cheeses.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure the dressing is gluten-free and omit any breadcrumbs or croutons in additions.
• Low-Calorie: Use a dressing made from lemon juice with a minimal amount of light olive oil or a low-calorie vinaigrette.
• Ingredient Variations: If fresh tomatoes are out of season, consider roasted or sun-dried tomatoes to keep vibrant flavor.
• Additions: Include sliced red onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers for an additional dimension, or add grilled chicken for extra protein.

These substitutions and additions help tailor the salad to individual preferences and dietary restrictions while preserving its fresh and balanced character.

How to Prepare the Perfect Scala Chopped Salad: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare Fresh Ingredients

Start by gathering all your fresh produce like shredded iceberg lettuce, optional romaine lettuce, Italian salami slices, shredded mozzarella, and rinsed garbanzo beans. Chop any optional vegetables tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions into small, uniform pieces.

Step 2: Chop and Combine

Carefully chop or shred all ingredients into bite-sized uniform pieces to ensure each forkful captures the salad’s full taste and texture. Place all chopped ingredients into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

Whisk together olive oil, red wine or apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth. Refer to How to Make the Perfect Salad Dressing for detailed vinaigrette tips.

Step 4: Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over the chopped salad. Toss gently yet thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated with the flavorful dressing. For best texture, dress the salad just before serving.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Allow the salad to rest for at least 10 minutes, letting flavors meld nicely. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnishing with extra grated cheese and freshly cracked black pepper if desired.

Tip: Uniform chopping is crucial for consistent texture and flavor distribution in the Scala chopped salad.

Mastering Scala Chopped Salad: Advanced Tips and Variations

Enhance your Scala chopped salad by experimenting with fresh herbs such as basil or mint these add a fragrant complexity to the dish that complements the crisp vegetables. For extra texture and nutrition, sprinkle in nuts or seeds like toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or sunflower seeds, which provide a satisfying crunch and healthy fats.

Consider mixing in grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to introduce a smoky note and warm flavors, creating a heartier salad experience. Dressings can be varied to keep the salad fresh and interesting; try swapping the classic vinaigrette with tahini-based dressings or mango vinaigrettes for a hint of sweetness and creaminess that pairs beautifully with the savory ingredients.

To maintain the salad’s appeal across different dietary needs, substitute traditional cheeses with fermented plant-based options or use milder acidity levels in the dressing to accommodate sensitive digestion. These advanced tips encourage creativity and personalization while preserving the fundamental qualities that make the Scala chopped salad distinct and delicious.

“Fresh herbs and textured nuts can transform a simple salad into a gourmet-level dish.”

How to Store Scala Chopped Salad: Best Practices

Proper storage is key to preserving the crispness and flavor of Scala chopped salad. For best results, keep the salad and dressing separate if you need to store it longer than a few hours. Store fresh chopped vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Avoid freezing the salad since fresh vegetables lose their texture and become mushy when defrosted. When ready to serve, mix the dressing freshly to keep the ingredients crisp and vibrant.

If the salad has already been dressed, it’s best enjoyed within 24 hours to prevent sogginess. For leftover salad that has lost some crunch, briefly tossing it with a squeeze of lemon juice or lightly rinsing and drying the greens can help revive freshness.

Nutritional Value of Scala Chopped Salad

A typical serving of Scala chopped salad offers a nutrient-dense option that fits well within a balanced meal plan. It is relatively low in calories but provides a good source of dietary fiber, essential vitamins like A, C, and K, and minerals such as potassium and magnesium derived from fresh vegetables.

The olive oil-based dressing contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, which support cardiovascular health. Protein content varies depending on whether cheese or plant-based alternatives are included. For example, mozzarella cheese enriches the salad with calcium and additional protein. The whole dish promotes digestion, immune function, and overall wellness, making it a smart choice for those prioritizing healthful eating.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Scala Chopped Salad

Classic Chopped Salad Recipe Inspired by the Viral La Scala Favorite

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🥗 Enjoy the perfect blend of crisp textures and vibrant flavors with this Classic Chopped Salad, inspired by a viral favorite.
🍋 Bursting with freshness, this salad is quick to make and sure to delight at any meal or gathering.

• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

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Shredded iceberg lettuce (about 5 cups)
1/4 lb (4 ounces) Italian salami, sliced into thin strips
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 15-ounce can garbanzo beans (chickpeas), rinsed and well-drained
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 to 1/3 cup red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar as an alternative)
2 to 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
2 cloves minced fresh garlic
1/3 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, grated cheese, salt, and ground pepper until the dressing is smooth.
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded iceberg lettuce, salami strips, mozzarella cheese, and garbanzo beans.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss thoroughly to evenly coat all ingredients.
4. For added flavor, garnish with extra grated cheese and freshly cracked black pepper.
5. Serve immediately to enjoy the salad’s full crispness and flavor.

Last Step:

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Notes

🧀 Tip: Use freshly grated cheese for a richer, more flavorful dressing.
🌿 Tip: For added freshness, include shredded romaine lettuce along with the iceberg.
🍅 Tip: Optional additions such as sun-dried tomatoes or grilled chicken can enhance flavor and nutritional value.

• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Rest Time: 0 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: California
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Varies based on serving
• Calories: 189-370 kcal
• Sugar: Low
• Sodium: Moderate
• Fat: 18-25 g
• Saturated Fat: Varies
• Unsaturated Fat: Varies
• Trans Fat: Minimal
• Carbohydrates: Low
• Fiber: Low
• Protein: 6-25 g
• Cholesterol: Varies