Name: La Scala Chopped Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: ⅓ cup extra virgin 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 cheese); For the Salad: 1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded (5-6 cups); 1 head romaine lettuce, shredded (4-5 cups); 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; ¼ pound Italian salami, thinly sliced; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad offers a harmonious combination of flavors and textures:

Fresh and Crunchy: The shredded iceberg and romaine lettuces provide a crisp base.
Savory Additions: Italian salami and mozzarella cheese add depth and richness.
Tangy Dressing: A zesty red wine vinaigrette ties all the ingredients together.
Versatile and Satisfying: Perfect as a standalone meal or a side dish.

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

⅓ cup extra virgin 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 grated Parmesan cheese)

For the Salad:

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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Whisk or shake until well combined.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the shredded iceberg lettuce, shredded romaine lettuce, chickpeas, sliced Italian salami, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
Serve: Enjoy immediately as a main dish or side salad.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

Variations

Add More Vegetables: Incorporate sliced red onions, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for added color and flavor.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make the salad more substantial.
Cheese Alternatives: Substitute mozzarella with provolone or feta cheese for a different taste.

Storage/Reheating

For optimal freshness, it’s best to consume the salad immediately after preparation. If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Add the dressing just before serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of salami?

Yes, you can substitute Italian salami with other types like Genoa or pepperoni, depending on your preference.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.

Can I make the dressing in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

How can I make this salad vegetarian?

Omit the salami to create a vegetarian version of this salad.

Can I add pasta to this salad?

Yes, adding cooked pasta can turn this into a hearty pasta salad.

How do I prevent the lettuce from wilting?

Add the dressing just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.

Can I use canned mozzarella?

Fresh mozzarella is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but you can use pre-shredded mozzarella if necessary.

How can I make this salad spicier?

Add sliced pepperoncini peppers or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to introduce some heat.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Pecorino Romano with Parmesan or Asiago cheese.

How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days.

Conclusion

The La Scala Chopped Salad is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients and tangy dressing, offering a satisfying meal that’s both flavorful and versatile. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a side dish, this salad is sure to impress.