The classic La Scala chopped salad with chickpeas and crunchy chopped lettuce has always been one of our favorites – and tastes like the famous salad at the Beverly Hills restaurant.

La Scala has been a fixture in California for decades, and growing up in Los Angeles, we always craved the simple and hearty salad – it is one of our favorites, and this variation tastes like the salads we grew up eating at La Scala!

At Avdaye, we add lots of tips in all of our recipes – because we are a home cook without any formal training, and we find we are more confident making dishes when we understand why it works, and what each ingredient means to the flavor of a recipe. Our goal is for even the most beginner home cook to feel empowered in the kitchen.

La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

If you love a quick and easy protein packed meal this la scala chopped salad is for you! This salad has chickpeas and salami and can be made vegetarian by omitting the salami and doubling up on the chickpeas. This salad is a great gluten free option to bring to potlucks since everyone can enjoy it.

The dressing for this salad is based in dijon and vinegar and it gives the salad an aromatic well-balanced flavor. This salad is versatile, you can swap out ingredients based on what you have on and always get a mouthwatering fresh tangy bite.

La Scala Chopped Salad Ingredients

First assemble the following ingredients:

Extra virgin olive oil (1/3 cup) – Olive oil provides a rich, smooth base for the salad's dressing, enhancing its overall flavor and texture.
Red wine vinegar (3 Tablespoons) – Red wine vinegar adds a tangy, acidic punch to the dressing, balancing the richness of the olive oil and cheese.
Garlic (2) – Fresh garlic imparts a robust, aromatic flavor that elevates the savory notes of the salad.
Dijon mustard (3 teaspoons) – Dijon mustard adds a subtle heat and creaminess to the dressing, tying all the ingredients together.
Kosher salt and pepper (½ teaspoon) – A simple seasoning of salt and pepper enhances the natural flavors of each ingredient in the salad.
Parmesan cheese (1/3 cup) – Parmesan cheese offers a nutty, savory depth that complements the other flavors in the salad.
Romaine lettuces (5-6 cups) – Crisp romaine lettuce serves as the fresh, crunchy base of the salad, providing a vibrant contrast to the other ingredients.
Chickpeas (15-ounce) – Chickpeas add a hearty, creamy texture and a boost of protein, making the salad more filling.
Italian salami (¼ lb) – Italian salami introduces a savory, slightly spicy element that enriches the salad's flavor profile.
Mozzarella cheese (2 cups) – Mozzarella cheese contributes a mild, creamy richness that balances the sharper flavors of the dressing and salami.

How to make La Scala Salad

After you've gathered your ingredients, we will use the following method:

Combine Dressing. Add all of the salad dressing ingredients to a small bowl or small jar. Whisk everything together or close the lid and shake to combine
Combine. To a large bowl, add the shredded lettuce, chickpeas, Italian salami, and mozzarella cheese. Pour the prepared dressing on top and toss to coat.
Enjoy or Refrigerate. Enjoy this la scala salad recipe right away. Store leftovers in the fridge for 1-2 days. Store the dressing separately to prep in advance.

La Scala Chop Salad Tips and Tricks

Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the lettuce and salami, are fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Chop Finely: Finely chop all ingredients to ensure every bite includes a mix of flavors.

Mix Properly: Toss the salad thoroughly to evenly distribute the dressing and ingredients.

Chill Ingredients: Keep the ingredients chilled before assembling to maintain crispness and freshness.

Homemade Dressing: Make the Italian dressing from scratch for a more authentic and flavorful salad.

Balance Flavors: Adjust the ratio of salami, mozzarella, and garbanzo beans to balance the flavors according to your taste.

Season to Taste: Add salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if needed to enhance the flavors.

Serve Immediately: Serve the salad immediately after tossing to maintain its crisp texture.

Custom Add-Ins: Customize with additional ingredients like olives, tomatoes, or cucumbers for extra variety.

Proper Storage: If preparing in advance, store the chopped ingredients and dressing separately and combine before serving.

Keeping leftovers

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though the texture may change slightly.

La Scala Salad FAQs

Can we use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with provolone or feta for a different flavor profile.

Can we prepare the salad in advance?

Yes, you can chop the ingredients and prepare the dressing ahead of time, but toss them together before serving to maintain freshness.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

To make it vegetarian, omit the salami and consider adding more cheese or beans for protein.

What type of salami works best?

Use a high-quality, thinly sliced Genoa or Italian salami for the best flavor and texture.

Can we make the salad gluten-free?

Yes, the salad is naturally gluten-free as long as the dressing and salami are free from gluten-containing ingredients. Always check labels to be sure.

Serve it with

Crusty Italian Bread: The bread's texture and flavor are suited to soaking up the tangy Italian dressing, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.

Grilled Chicken: Adds a protein boost and complements the salad's savory elements, making it a more filling and balanced meal.

Pasta Dishes: Such as spaghetti aglio e olio or fettuccine alfredo, offer a hearty and comforting accompaniment, with the salad providing a fresh, crisp contrast.

Italian Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or a bold Chianti enhances the meal, with the wine's acidity balancing the richness of the cheese and salami in the salad.

Antipasto Platter: Featuring cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables, this platter echoes the flavors of the salad and creates a cohesive Italian-themed spread.

Garlic Bread: Its rich, buttery flavor and crunchy texture complement the freshness of the salad, making for a delightful and complete dining experience.

Roasted Vegetables: Adds a warm, earthy element to the meal, contrasting nicely with the crisp, cool salad.

Margherita Pizza: The simple flavors of the pizza—tomato, mozzarella, and basil—pair well with the complex flavors of the salad.

Soup: A light minestrone or tomato basil soup pairs wonderfully with the salad, offering a warm, comforting option alongside the cool, crisp greens.

Fruit Tart: For dessert, a light and refreshing fruit tart provides a sweet finish, balancing the savory and tangy flavors of the salad.

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Ingredients

⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 Tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic minced
3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon kosher salt and pepper
⅓ cup parmesan cheese, grated
1 head romaine lettuces, shredded, 5-6 cups
15 oz chickpeas, drained and rinsed
¼ lb Italian salami, thinly sliced
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

Method

Add all of the salad dressing ingredients to a small bowl or small jar. Whisk everything together or close the lid and shake to combine
To a large bowl, add the shredded lettuce, chickpeas, Italian salami, and mozzarella cheese. Pour the prepared dressing on top and toss to coat.
Enjoy this la scala salad recipe right away. Store leftovers in the fridge for 1-2 days. Store the dressing separately to prep in advance.