Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe: A Delicious Classic for Every Occasion

When it comes to salads that have stood the test of time, the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is an undeniable favorite. Loved by celebrities, socialites, and food enthusiasts alike, this dish has even gained a reputation as the Kardashian Chopped Salad due to its frequent appearances in the hands of the famous family. Whether you’re a fan of crisp greens, a clean eating enthusiast, or just in search of work day lunch ideas, this recipe is the perfect choice for your next meal.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every detail of how to recreate this iconic salad at home. Along the way, we’ll highlight its versatility, how it fits into clean eating, and how you can adapt it to include elements from steak salad recipes or viral Italian chopped salad trends.

Why Is the La Scala Chopped Salad So Famous?

The La Scala Chopped Salad originated at La Scala, a renowned Italian restaurant in Beverly Hills, known for its luxurious yet simple dishes. The salad became a sensation due to its unique combination of flavors and textures. Packed with finely shredded lettuce, cured meats, and a tangy vinaigrette, this salad offers a perfectly balanced bite every time. Its popularity skyrocketed as celebrities began raving about it, leading to viral status on social media platforms.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this salad, you’ll need a mix of fresh produce, cured meats, and pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:

Salad Base:

• 4 cups finely shredded lettuce (romaine or iceberg work best)
• 1/2 cup garbanzo beans (chickpeas), rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, finely diced or shredded
• 1/4 cup salami, julienned or diced
• 1/4 cup turkey breast, julienned or diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

For the La Scala Vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Shred the Lettuce: Use a sharp knife or a mandoline to shred the lettuce into thin, uniform strips. This creates the perfect texture for every bite.
2. Dice and Slice: Cut the salami, turkey breast, and mozzarella into small, evenly sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion if you’re using it.
3. Rinse the Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the garbanzo beans thoroughly. Pat them dry with a clean towel.

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk until the dressing is emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded lettuce, garbanzo beans, salami, turkey breast, mozzarella, and red onion (if using).
2. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
3. Transfer to a serving dish or individual bowls and garnish with additional mozzarella or salami, if desired.

Step 4: Serve

Enjoy the salad immediately as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Variations and Add-Ons

1. Steak Salad Twist

Turn this into a hearty dinner option by adding thinly sliced grilled steak. The rich flavors of the steak pair beautifully with the tangy vinaigrette and crisp lettuce.

2. Viral Italian Chopped Salad Inspiration

Incorporate ingredients like cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or Kalamata olives to give the salad a Mediterranean flair.

3. Vegetarian Option

Replace the salami and turkey breast with roasted vegetables or marinated tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.

4. Crisp and Green Copycat Recipes

Take inspiration from Crisp and Green’s fresh salads by adding crunchy toppings like sunflower seeds or crispy shallots.

Why This Salad Is Perfect for Clean Eating

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is naturally packed with nutrient-rich ingredients:

• Lettuce: Low in calories and high in fiber, shredded lettuce provides the perfect base for clean eating.
• Garbanzo Beans: A great source of plant-based protein and fiber.
• Lean Proteins: Turkey breast and salami offer a satisfying boost of protein without adding excessive calories.
• Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that’s essential for clean eating.

This salad is a great addition to any menu focused on the healthiest lunches for clean eating.

Work Day Lunch Ideas

This chopped salad is a meal prep dream. Here’s how you can turn it into a convenient workday lunch:

1. Meal Prep: Assemble the salad ingredients in separate containers, keeping the dressing on the side to prevent sogginess.
2. Portion Control: Divide the salad into single-serving containers for an easy grab-and-go option.
3. Pair It Up: Pack alongside a slice of crusty bread, a piece of fruit, or a small container of soup for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect La Scala Chopped Salad

1. Finely Shred the Lettuce: The thin strips of lettuce are a signature feature of this salad and ensure that every bite has the perfect texture.
2. Balance the Dressing: The vinaigrette is simple yet flavorful. Don’t skimp on the olive oil and vinegar ratio for the best results.
3. Serve Immediately: While the salad can be prepped ahead, it’s best to toss it with the dressing just before serving to maintain its crispness.

FAQs

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients and vinaigrette in advance. Store them separately and toss together right before serving.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the salad’s freshness.

Is This Salad Gluten-Free?

Yes, the La Scala Chopped Salad is naturally gluten-free as long as the cured meats and other ingredients you use are certified gluten-free.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is more than just a salad—it’s a culinary icon. Whether you’re channeling the style of Pascals Chopped Salad, exploring shredded lettuce salad recipes, or diving into viral Italian chopped salad trends, this dish remains timeless. Its popularity as a work day lunch idea or a staple in clean eating proves its versatility and universal appeal.

So why not give this classic recipe a try? Impress your guests, enjoy a healthier lunch option, or simply treat yourself to a salad that’s as famous as it is delicious. Happy chopping!