A Salad That Feels Like Home

Food has a way of weaving itself into our lives, carrying memories and emotions with every bite. I still remember the first time I had a truly exceptional chopped salad. It was a summer afternoon, and my grandmother, a woman who could turn even the simplest ingredients into something magical, placed a large bowl on the table. The colors were vibrant—greens, reds, creamy whites—and the smell of tangy dressing lingered in the air. It was a meal meant for sharing, a dish that brought people together.

Years later, when I discovered the La Scala Chopped Salad, it immediately transported me back to that moment. The crunch of fresh lettuce, the saltiness of salami, and the creamy bite of mozzarella—it was a perfect balance of textures and flavors. But what made it special wasn’t just the ingredients; it was the history, the tradition, and the way it made me feel.

This salad isn’t just another dish—it’s an experience, one that has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite in homes and restaurants alike.

A Salad with Star Power: The History of La Scala Chopped Salad

The La Scala Chopped Salad has a legacy that dates back to the 1950s. It was created by Chef Jean Leon, the owner of La Scala, an iconic Beverly Hills restaurant known for serving Hollywood’s elite. The story goes that Jean Leon wanted to create a salad that was easier to eat while still being rich in flavor and satisfying enough for a meal.

By finely chopping the ingredients—romaine and iceberg lettuce, Italian salami, mozzarella, and chickpeas—he ensured that every bite contained the perfect combination of flavors. The red wine vinegar dressing added the perfect tangy contrast to the rich cheese and meat, making it an instant hit.

Over the decades, this simple yet delicious salad became a staple among celebrities, drawing names like Elizabeth Taylor, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Kim Kardashian. In recent years, its popularity skyrocketed thanks to social media, with food lovers everywhere recreating it in their kitchens.

What Makes This Salad So Special?

1. A Perfectly Balanced Bite

Unlike traditional salads where ingredients can be unevenly distributed, the chopped technique ensures that every forkful delivers a mix of crisp lettuce, creamy cheese, savory salami, and nutty chickpeas, all coated in the zesty dressing.

2. Restaurant-Quality Simplicity

One of the best things about the La Scala Chopped Salad is that it requires only a handful of high-quality ingredients. There are no complicated techniques or hard-to-find components—just fresh, delicious flavors coming together effortlessly.

3. A Touch of Customization

While the original recipe is already a masterpiece, there are countless ways to make it your own. Some people prefer swapping mozzarella for provolone, while others add grilled chicken or even a handful of cherry tomatoes for extra freshness.

How to Elevate Your Chopped Salad Game

If you want to take your La Scala Chopped Salad to the next level, here are a few expert tips:

1. The Right Cut Matters

The key to an exceptional chopped salad is uniformity. Thinly shred the lettuce and cut the salami into small strips instead of cubes. This ensures that each bite is well-balanced.

2. Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference

Since this salad relies on simple ingredients, using high-quality, fresh components is essential. Opt for freshly shredded mozzarella, high-quality Italian salami, and the best extra virgin olive oil you can find.

3. Let It Sit

While this salad is delicious when eaten immediately, letting it sit for 5-10 minutes after tossing allows the flavors to meld together. The dressing slightly softens the lettuce while intensifying the overall taste.

Serving Suggestions: What Pairs Well with La Scala Chopped Salad?

This salad is hearty enough to be a standalone meal, but it also pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled chicken or shrimp – For extra protein
• A side of warm focaccia or garlic bread – To soak up the delicious dressing
• A crisp glass of white wine – Such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
• Roasted vegetables – For added color and flavor contrast

The Star-Studded Ingredient List

Dressing: The Secret to Tangy Perfection

• 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 and black pepper
• ⅓ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or Parmesan cheese)

Salad: A Crunchy, Savory Delight

• 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 lb (4 ounces) Italian salami, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

From Kitchen to Table: Step-by-Step Directions

1. Whip Up the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and Pecorino Romano cheese. Whisk or shake well until fully blended.

2. Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, add shredded iceberg and romaine lettuce. Toss in chickpeas, thinly sliced Italian salami, and shredded mozzarella cheese.

3. Toss and Serve

Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, tangy flavors!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 371 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 13.8g
• Protein: 24.7g
• Fat: 24.7g
• Cholesterol: 36.5mg
• Sodium: 1216mg
• Fiber: 4.6g
• Sugar: 1.6g
• Vitamin A: 136.5 IU
• Vitamin C: 1.7mg

This iconic Beverly Hills salad is a perfect balance of crunch, saltiness, and zest. Whether you’re meal prepping or making it fresh, it’s an effortless way to dine like a Hollywood star!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make This Salad in Advance?

Yes! You can chop all the ingredients and prepare the dressing ahead of time. However, it’s best to store them separately and toss them together right before serving to maintain the salad’s crisp texture.

2. How Long Does It Last in the Fridge?

Once dressed, this salad is best enjoyed within 1-2 days. If you’re meal prepping, store the lettuce, toppings, and dressing separately, then combine when ready to eat.

3. Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the salami or replace it with roasted chickpeas, marinated artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes for a delicious vegetarian version.

4. Is There a Low-Sodium Option?

If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium salami or replacing it with grilled chicken. You can also reduce the cheese or opt for a lower-sodium alternative like fresh mozzarella.

5. What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. If you expect leftovers, avoid adding all the dressing at once—store it separately and add just before serving.

Conclusion: A Classic That Never Gets Old

The La Scala Chopped Salad is more than just a meal—it’s a piece of culinary history, a dish that has graced the tables of Hollywood’s biggest stars and home kitchens alike. Its simplicity, versatility, and bold flavors make it a favorite that stands the test of time.

Whether you’re making it for a casual lunch, a dinner party, or just to treat yourself, this salad is a reminder that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, all you need are fresh ingredients, a good dressing, and a little love in the kitchen.

So the next time you take a bite, close your eyes and savor the moment—because this salad, in all its tangy, crunchy, and savory glory, is something truly special.

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