Famous La Scala Chopped Salad: A Flavorful Delight

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When you take a bite of the famous La Scala chopped salad, imagine a burst of flavors dancing on your palate. This salad is not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with fresh ingredients, crunchy textures, and vibrant colors that beckon you to indulge. As each flavor harmonizes—crisp lettuce mingling with sweet tomatoes and tangy dressing—your taste buds will thank you for this culinary adventure.

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This salad has become my go-to for gatherings, summer barbecues, and even cozy dinners at home. Picture yourself serving it at a picnic, where everyone dives in eagerly, and their delighted reactions make every chop worth it. The aroma alone will have your guests clamoring for the recipe, which is always my favorite part!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The famous La Scala chopped salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests
  • Packed with flavor from fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing, this salad is visually stunning and sure to impress at any gathering
  • It’s versatile enough to serve as a side or main dish, accommodating various dietary preferences easily

I remember the first time I made this salad for my friends—it was met with cheers and applause like I had just won an Oscar.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Romaine Lettuce: Fresh romaine provides the crunch necessary for that perfect salad texture. Look for bright green leaves without browning.

  • Tomatoes: Use ripe tomatoes for sweetness. Grape or cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and are easy to chop.

  • Cucumbers: English cucumbers are ideal due to their mild flavor and lack of seeds. Slice them thinly for maximum crunch.

  • Red Onion: A small amount of red onion adds sharpness without overwhelming flavors. Soak in water if you want to mellow its bite.

  • Bell Peppers: Choose colorful bell peppers—red, yellow, or orange—for sweetness and vibrant hues. Dice them into small pieces for even distribution.

  • Kalamata Olives: These briny olives add depth to the flavor profile. Pitting them before chopping saves time and effort.

  • Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese brings creaminess that perfectly balances the crisp veggies. Go for high-quality feta for the best taste.

  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens all the flavors in this dish and adds a refreshing tang.

  • Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor while adding richness. Drizzle generously over your salad.

  • Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings elevate all flavors—don’t skip these! Adjust according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

Prepare Your Veggies: Begin by washing all vegetables thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry; no one likes soggy salad! Chop the romaine into bite-sized pieces while relishing that satisfying crunch.

Chop Tomatoes and Cucumbers: Dice those juicy tomatoes and cucumbers into small cubes—they should be about the same size as your romaine pieces. This way, every forkful has a delightful mix of textures.

Add Color with Bell Peppers: Dice bell peppers into tiny bits of joy! Their sweetness will contrast beautifully with the other veggies while adding great visual appeal.

Toss in Red Onion & Olives: Thinly slice the red onion (remember: soak if you want milder flavor) then add sliced Kalamata olives for that salty kick! Stir gently so everything combines well.

Create Your Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper; taste test until it’s just right!

Toss Everything Together: Pour your dressing over the chopped salad mixture and toss gently but thoroughly until every morsel is coated in tangy goodness! Serve immediately or chill briefly.

Enjoying the famous La Scala chopped salad gives you not just nourishment but also joy—a true celebration of fresh ingredients!

You Must Know

  • The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad bursts with flavor, thanks to its crunchy textures and vibrant colors
  • Perfect for meal prep, it stays fresh for days, making it a go-to dish for busy weeks
  • A delightful addition to any gathering or picnic!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad efficiently, start by prepping your ingredients. Chop all veggies first while the dressing marinates. This ensures everything is crisp and flavorful when combined.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or add some grilled chicken for extra protein. A sprinkle of nuts can also add a lovely crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Toss before serving to refresh the salad’s flavors and textures.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is versatile; don’t hesitate to experiment with different dressings
  • For added zest, try squeezing fresh lemon juice just before serving
  • Remember to chop your veggies uniformly for a beautiful presentation and even flavor distribution

Creating the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad was one of those moments where I realized my friends can eat their weight in greens if they’re this delicious!

FAQ

What ingredients are essential for the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad?

Key ingredients include romaine lettuce, tomatoes, garbanzo beans, and Italian dressing.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance; just keep dressing separate until serving.

What are some great toppings for this salad?

Consider adding feta cheese, olives, or a sprinkle of sunflower seeds for extra flavor!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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La Scala Chopped Salad


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Discover the vibrant flavors of the famous La Scala chopped salad, a perfect medley of fresh ingredients that will dance on your palate. This colorful salad combines crisp romaine, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. Ideal for gatherings, summer picnics, or cozy dinners at home, it’s an easy-to-make dish that adds flair to any meal. Enjoy this refreshing salad as a side or main course that accommodates various dietary preferences while impressing your guests.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup English cucumber, diced
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced (soaked in water if desired)
  • 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
  • ¾ cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry all vegetables thoroughly.
  2. Chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl.
  3. Dice cherry tomatoes and cucumber into small cubes; add to the bowl.
  4. Add diced bell peppers and thinly sliced red onion (after soaking) along with Kalamata olives.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until well combined.
  7. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

 

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