Name: La Scala Chopped Salad: Fresh, Fast, and Flavor-Packed Surprise
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 head Iceberg Lettuce (finely chopped); 1 head Radicchio (finely chopped); 6 oz Salami (julienned); 4 oz Provolone Cheese (thinly sliced); 1 can Chickpeas (drained and rinsed); 1 medium Cucumber (diced); 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved); 1 jar Roasted Red Peppers (sliced); 3 tbsp Olive Oil; 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar; 1 tsp Dried Oregano; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)

As summer heat envelops us, I found myself at a cozy Italian café, where a delightful La Scala Chopped Salad beckoned from the menu. This colorful dish is not just a salad; it encapsulates a whirlwind of fresh, vibrant flavors that whisk you away to sun-drenched Mediterranean shores. Bursting with crunchy iceberg lettuce, zesty radicchio, and savory salami, this quick and healthy recipe is perfect for those busy days when cooking feels like a daunting task. In just 15 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that’s equally at home on a picnic blanket or your dining table. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or entertaining friends, this Italian-American classic is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Curious about how to make this deliciousness at home? Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to a crunch-tastic feast!

Why is La Scala Chopped Salad a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This recipe requires only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days when you’re craving something delicious without the hassle of cooking.

Vibrant Flavors: The combination of fresh ingredients like crunchy cucumber and zesty radicchio delivers a burst of palate-pleasing taste that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

Healthy Choice: Packed with veggies and protein-rich chickpeas, it’s a guilt-free option that keeps you feeling full and energized throughout the day.

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at your next gathering, and watch as guests rave about the colorful presentation and delightful flavors—just like they do with my Buffalo Tuna Salad.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap salami for grilled chicken or add extra veggies, allowing you to customize each batch to fit your taste preferences.

Embrace the flavorful medley of La Scala Chopped Salad, and enjoy the healthy, delicious meal you deserve!

La Scala Chopped Salad Ingredients

Get ready to create a vibrant dish!

For the Salad

Iceberg Lettuce – Provides a crisp, refreshing base essential for a crunchy salad texture.
Radicchio – Offers a slight bitterness and vibrant color, enhancing both taste and visual appeal.
Salami – Adds savory, spiced notes through julienne cuts that distribute flavor evenly without overwhelming the dish.
Provolone Cheese – Delivers a creamy texture; sliced thin for delightful pockets of melt in each bite.
Chickpeas – Boosts heartiness, fiber, and protein with a gentle nuttiness, contributing to the salad’s substantial feel.
Cucumber – Provides a cool, watery crunch that refreshes the palate and contrasts with meat and cheese.
Cherry Tomatoes – Adds bursts of sweet acidity, brightening the overall flavor profile.
Roasted Red Peppers – Infuses smoky-sweet depth and vibrant color, enhancing the overall flavor.

For the Dressing

Olive Oil – Forms a silky base for the dressing, adding heart-healthy fats.
Red Wine Vinegar – Introduces sharp acidity that balances the richness of ingredients in this La Scala Chopped Salad.
Dried Oregano – Enhances Mediterranean aromas and herbal warmth.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste, amplifying and balancing flavors in the dish.

For the Finish

Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkled on top for a salty, nutty finish that elevates the dish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for La Scala Chopped Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Greens
In a large salad bowl, finely chop the iceberg lettuce and radicchio into bite-sized pieces. Aim for a colorful mix, creating a vibrant base that invites you to dig in. This initial step should take about 5 minutes. The crisp lettuce and rich radicchio will set the tone for your refreshing La Scala Chopped Salad.

Step 2: Incorporate Meats and Cheese
Next, gently fold in the julienned salami and thinly sliced provolone cheese to add savory and creamy elements. Use your hands or large utensils to mix them delicately, ensuring every piece is well-distributed throughout the salad. This should take around 3 minutes. The combination will infuse delicious flavor into every bite.

Step 3: Add Heartiness with Chickpeas
Sprinkle the chickpeas evenly throughout the salad, enhancing its heartiness and nutritional value. These little legumes will contribute a delightful nuttiness, making your La Scala Chopped Salad more filling. Take about 2 minutes to distribute them evenly, ensuring that every forkful offers a blend of textures and flavors.

Step 4: Mix in the Fresh Vegetables
Now, introduce the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and roasted red peppers to the bowl. Toss gently to preserve the crunch of the fresh produce while blending in the vibrant colors. This step should take no more than 2-3 minutes. The addition of these veggies will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich meats and cheese.

Step 5: Craft the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create a lively vinaigrette. Aim for a smooth, emulsified consistency, which usually takes about 2 minutes. This dressing will tie together the flavors of your La Scala Chopped Salad and elevate the dish with its tangy brilliance.

Step 6: Dress and Toss the Salad
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. Spend about 2 minutes on this step, using a gentle motion to protect the freshness and texture of the ingredients. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor without wilting the veggies.

Step 7: Finish with Parmesan
Finally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of your La Scala Chopped Salad. Give it a light toss to ensure the cheese mingles with the rest of the ingredients. This should take just 1 minute. The salty, nutty finish will perfect this delightful dish, adding a gourmet touch.

Step 8: Serve Fresh
Your La Scala Chopped Salad is ready to serve! Present it immediately for the best flavor and texture experience. The vibrant colors and varied textures will surely impress your family or guests, making it a perfect addition to any meal or occasion. Enjoy the fresh and healthy explosion of taste!

La Scala Chopped Salad: Delicious Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful salad, transforming it into a personalized masterpiece that excites your palate!

Protein Boost: Swap salami for grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty, protein-packed salad that satisfies even the biggest appetites. Adding these brings a savory depth and a delicious twist to every bite.
Flavorful Additions: Toss in olives or artichoke hearts for a briny kick that enhances the dish’s Mediterranean essence, elevating both flavor and texture for a more complex experience.
Leafy Greens: Try using spinach or mixed greens instead of iceberg lettuce for a nutritional punch and a fresh taste. Each leafy option brings different textures and flavors, making the salad vibrant and interesting.
Colorful Veggies: Incorporate zucchini or bell peppers for additional color and crunch, personalizing the salad while enhancing its nutritional value. These veggies are not only tasty but also add a delightful element to each bite!
Cheese Variety: Replace provolone with feta or mozzarella for a different creamy flavor profile. Feta provides a tangy counterpoint, while mozzarella adds a light, milky touch.
Spice it Up: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for those who love a kick of heat in their salads. This fiery addition will excite the flavor experience while adding warmth!
Nutty Flavor: Consider tossing in some toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch and a rich taste. The nuttiness creates a delightful contrast with the other fresh ingredients.
Whole Grain Swap: Use quinoa or farro as a base in place of chickpeas for a nutty, hearty experience that adds fiber and substance. This alternative helps create an even more filling meal that still feels light and refreshing.

Feel inspired to explore these variations and create your mouthwatering take on La Scala Chopped Salad! And if you’re ever in need of more delicious salads, don’t forget to check out my recipes for Carrot Cucumber Salad and Cucumber Salad Bacon, perfect for any occasion!

How to Store and Freeze La Scala Chopped Salad

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, ensuring the dressing is kept separate to maintain freshness and crunch.

Make-Ahead: Prepare ingredients in advance and keep them separate until ready to serve. This way, you can enjoy fresh flavors when you’re ready to eat.

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze La Scala Chopped Salad, as fresh vegetables lose texture and flavor upon thawing, affecting the overall experience.

Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold, so no reheating is necessary. Just assemble and serve for a refreshing meal!

What to Serve with La Scala Chopped Salad

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this refreshing salad with complementary dishes that will delight your palate.

Crusty Italian Bread: Freshly baked bread brings a warm, crunchy contrast, perfect for mopping up any leftover vinaigrette on your plate.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, marinated chicken adds a protein boost, rounding out the meal while enhancing those Mediterranean flavors.
Roasted Veggies: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables provide a sweet, caramelized depth that perfectly balances the tangy freshness of the salad.
Pasta Primavera: A light, vegetable-packed pasta dish makes for a hearty side, seamlessly integrating with the lovely textures of your La Scala Chopped Salad.
White Wine Spritzer: A crisp, refreshing drink, like a spritzer, cleanses the palate and adds a festive touch to your dining experience.
Lemon Sorbet: This light, zesty dessert acts as a refreshing finish, cleansing your palate after the savory layers of the salad.

Indulging in these pairings will turn your La Scala Chopped Salad into a full culinary experience.

Expert Tips for La Scala Chopped Salad

Preparation Matters: Ensure all ingredients are chopped into similar sizes for a uniform texture. This enhances the overall visual appeal and makes every bite delightful.
Keep It Fresh: Dress the salad right before serving to maintain that crispy crunch. This prevents the greens from wilting and losing their vibrant colors.
Flavor Balance: Adjust the salt and pepper at the end. Different brands of cheese and salami can vary in saltiness, so taste as you go to achieve the perfect seasoning.
Customize to Taste: Don’t hesitate to substitute ingredients! Swap salami for grilled chicken or try different veggies to create your ideal La Scala Chopped Salad.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the undressed salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.
Garnish for Extra Flavor: Top your finished salad with more Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil to elevate the flavors even further.

Make Ahead Options

La Scala Chopped Salad is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh flavors without any last-minute rush! You can chop the iceberg lettuce, radicchio, cucumbers, and roasted red peppers up to 24 hours in advance. Store these veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them crisp. Additionally, you can prepare the dressing (olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply mix the prepped ingredients, toss with the dressing, and add the salami, provolone, chickpeas, and Parmesan cheese for a delicious, vibrant salad that’s just as fresh and satisfying as when you made it!

La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for my La Scala Chopped Salad?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, look for crisp iceberg lettuce with vibrant green leaves, avoiding any that appear wilting or brown. For radicchio, choose heads with deep purple color. The salami should be fresh and aromatic, while provolone cheese should feel firm. Check cherry tomatoes for firmness, avoiding ones with dark spots or soft areas.

How should I store leftover La Scala Chopped Salad?
To keep your salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be sure to keep the dressing separate; this will help the greens stay crisp and prevent wilting. If you enjoy meal prep, you can chop and store the salad components ahead of time, just dress it right before serving for the best results.

Can I freeze La Scala Chopped Salad?
Unfortunately, it’s not advisable to freeze La Scala Chopped Salad. Freezing fresh ingredients like iceberg lettuce and cucumbers will result in a loss of texture once thawed. If it’s necessary to prepare in advance, consider freezing the dressing separately and assemble the salad fresh when ready to eat.

What should I do if my salad is too salty?
If you find your La Scala Chopped Salad is too salty, you can balance it by adding additional fresh ingredients. Consider mixing in extra cucumber or cherry tomatoes, which can dilute the saltiness. You can also increase the amount of dressing if it’s been applied, but do so sparingly and taste as you go.

Is La Scala Chopped Salad suitable for everyone?
Very! This salad is suitable for most dietary needs but does contain salami and provolone cheese, which may not be suitable for those with specific allergies or dietary restrictions. For a vegetarian option, simply swap the salami for grilled vegetables or chickpeas. Always check labels for any allergens, especially with pre-packaged ingredients.

How can I customize La Scala Chopped Salad to my taste?
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute salami with grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. Add an array of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even olives for more flavor. Consider incorporating herbs like basil or parsley; these can elevate the overall taste and give your salad a personalized touch. The more, the merrier!