Description
La Scala Chopped Salad is a vibrant and satisfying Italian-inspired salad featuring a mix of crunchy iceberg and romaine lettuce, protein-rich chickpeas, savory beef salami, and creamy mozzarella. Tossed in a tangy, garlicky dressing with Pecorino Romano cheese, this salad delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal quick and hearty meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Dressing
- â…“ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- â…“ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
Salad
- 1 head shredded iceberg lettuce (5-6 cups)
- 1 head shredded romaine lettuce (4-5 cups)
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ¼ lb (4 ounces) beef salami, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined. Stir in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese, ensuring it’s evenly incorporated to create a flavorful, creamy dressing.
- Prepare the salad base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded iceberg lettuce and shredded romaine lettuce. Add the rinsed and drained chickpeas along with the thinly sliced beef salami to the greens, mixing gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Toss the salad with dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss thoroughly but gently to make sure every ingredient is coated in the flavorful dressing without bruising the lettuce.
- Serve immediately: Transfer the salad to serving bowls or plates and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Serve right away to enjoy the crisp texture and fresh flavors at their best.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese for best flavor and texture.
- Chickpeas add plant-based protein and a nice bite; rinse them well to reduce starchiness.
- If preferred, substitute beef salami with turkey or vegetarian salami for variations.
- For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped celery or cucumbers.
- Serve this salad immediately after tossing to keep the lettuce crisp.
