Inspired by the famous restaurant in Beverly Hills, this Viral La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe has fresh ingredients and is jam-packed with flavor! The combination of chick peas, Genoa salami, Italian cheeses, and fresh veggies makes it a salad to remember. It's no wonder that it has been highly requested for years. If you plan to visit Beverly Hills, be sure to check it out!
The La Scala chopped salad originated from the renowned Beverly Hills restaurant. They have been serving this dish to celebrities for over 60 years. This recipe features fresh salad ingredients, including crisp iceberg lettuce, garbanzo beans, savory salami slices, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan, and thinly sliced red onions. Tossed together with a flavorful dressing, this salad offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Looking for more amazing salad recipes? You may also love our Zesty Italian Pasta Recipe or this amazing Italian White Bean Salad.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Flavor: Delicious Italian meats & cheeses and protein-packed beans in every bite. Combined with the tangy homemade dressing, your tastebuds will be singing!
- Meal Prep: A flavorful salad that you can enjoy for a nutritious meal prep.
- History: La Scala's famous restaurant recently celebrated its 60 year anniversary. Many people come back for this famous chopped salad time and time again.
Ingredients
- Iceberg Lettuce: Crisp iceberg adds a refreshing base for the salad. Romaine can be used as well!
- Garbanzo Beans: Add a delightful texture and a bonus protein boost.
- Salami: Provides a savory and flavorful element.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Adds richness to the salad. We prefer 100% whole milk mozzarella.
- Shaved Parmesan: Brings a distinct, tangy flavor to the mix.
- Red Onion: Adds a mild bite and a pop of color.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Substitutions & Variations
- Lettuce: Romaine lettuce works well, or a combination of Iceberg and Romaine.
- Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or grated pecorino Romano for added variety.
- Meats: Fresh out of salami? Try other Italian meats like pepperoni, mortadella, or capicola.
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How to Make the Viral La Scala Chopped Salad
Step One: Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic (if using), dried oregano, grated parmesan, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
Step Two: Prepare the Base
Add the shredded iceberg lettuce to the bowl.
Step Three: Add Other Ingredients
Add the drained garbanzo beans, thinly sliced salami, shredded mozzarella cheese, and thinly sliced red onion.
Step Four: Toss and Serve
Gently toss the salad to ensure that all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
Add the shaved parmesan to the top. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips for Success
👩🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and meal prep hacks!
✔️ DO Finely chop all ingredients so that all flavors are present with each bite.
✔️ DO Prep the dressing and chop the ingredients in advance, then assemble the salad just before serving.
✔️ DO Marinate the beans in the dressing ahead of time for more flavor.
Storage
The La Scala chopped salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days.
Recipe FAQs
The La Scala chopped salad became famous for its simple mix of crisp lettuce, finely chopped salami, and tangy homemade dressing. Its bite-sized texture and balanced flavors make it addictively easy to eat-and perfect for sharing. It is also a favorite among celebrities.
Yes! While the original includes both salami and grated Parmesan, you can easily substitute with chickpeas or grilled chicken for protein and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
The key to that signature La Scala texture is using a sharp chef's knife and chopping everything into uniform, small pieces. Each bite should have a little bit of everything-lettuce, meat, cheese, and dressing.
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📖 Recipe
How to Make the Viral La Scala Chopped Salad
Equipment
- Large Salad bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
La Scala Salad
- 1 small head iceberg or romaine lettuce (about 4-5 cups) thinly sliced
- 1 15 oz can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
- 35-40 slices salami (about 4 oz) thinly sliced or julienned
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese (about 1 cup) shredded
- ¾ cup shaved Parmesan cheese loosely packed
- ¼ small red onion thinly sliced
- salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Red Wine Vinaigrette:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small garlic clove (optional) finely minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 2-3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, grated parmesan, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
- Next, add the shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce, drained garbanzo beans, sliced salami, shredded mozzarella cheese, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Gently toss the salad so all ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Add the shaved parmesan to the top.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary. Serve immediately.
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Enter your email below and we'll send it to your inbox. Plus, you'll get new recipes from us each week!
Video
Notes
- Lettuce: Romaine lettuce works well, or a combination of Iceberg and Romaine.
- Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or grated pecorino Romano for added variety.
- Meats: Fresh out of salami? Try other Italian meats like pepperoni, mortadella, or capicola.
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