Can I use a different type of lettuce?

While the classic La Scala salad uses iceberg and romaine for their distinctive textures, you can experiment with other varieties. Just keep in mind that softer lettuces like butter or spring mix won't provide the same satisfying crunch that makes this salad special.

Where do I find Italian salami and how is it different from regular salami?

Look for Italian dry salami (sometimes labeled as Genoa salami) in the specialty cheese section of your grocery store. Unlike deli-sliced salami, this type has a firmer texture and more concentrated flavor that stands up well to the other ingredients in the salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time for a party?

Yes, but with a strategy! Prepare all components separately and combine just before serving. If you need to assemble slightly in advance, hold the dressing until the last minute to keep the lettuce crisp.

Is there a way to make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the salami and add extra chickpeas. For additional flavor, consider adding some marinated artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of capers to make up for the savory notes the salami provides.

Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe

Name: Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 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; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ⅓ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or grated Parmesan cheese); 1 head shredded iceberg lettuce (5–6 cups); 1 head shredded romaine lettuce (4–5 cups); 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; ¼ lb (4 ounces) Italian salami, thinly sliced; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a revelation in a bowl – crisp, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. Inspired by the legendary La Scala restaurant’s signature dish, this salad combines perfectly shredded lettuce, savory Italian salami, protein-packed chickpeas, and a tangy homemade dressing that brings everything together. Best of all, it takes just 20 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fresh yet substantial!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant-Quality at Home: Recreate the iconic La Scala experience right in your own kitchen without the reservation or the bill!
Quick Assembly: From start to finish in just 20 minutes – this salad comes together faster than delivery would arrive.
Perfect Texture Combination: The crunch of fresh lettuce, the chewiness of salami, and the tender chickpeas create a satisfying bite every time.
Meal-Worthy Salad: With protein from chickpeas and salami, plus cheese for richness, this isn’t just a side dish – it’s a complete meal that actually keeps you full.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep components in advance for even quicker assembly when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Iceberg Lettuce: Provides the perfect crisp foundation and signature crunch that makes this salad so satisfying.
Romaine Lettuce: Adds nutrition and a slightly different texture than iceberg for the perfect lettuce blend.
Chickpeas: Brings protein, fiber, and a wonderful tender texture contrast to the crisp lettuce.
Italian Salami: The star flavor-maker that adds savory depth and a hint of spice that takes this salad to the next level.
Mozzarella Cheese: Adds creaminess and a mild, cooling element that balances the punchy dressing and salami.
Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin for the dressing – it’s worth it for the flavor foundation.
Red Wine Vinegar: Provides the perfect tangy acidity that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds incredible depth to the dressing – don’t substitute powder here!
Dijon Mustard: Works as both a flavor enhancer and an emulsifier that helps the dressing stay perfectly blended.
Pecorino Romano: This aged sheep’s milk cheese adds a salty, umami kick to the dressing that regular parmesan can’t quite match.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning that brings everything together.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Want to make this classic your own? Here are some delicious ways to vary the recipe:

Protein Swaps

Replace the salami with grilled chicken, turkey, or even tuna for a different protein experience. For a vegetarian version, double the chickpeas or add cubed firm tofu.

Mediterranean Twist

Add kalamata olives, diced cucumber, and substitute feta for the mozzarella for a Mediterranean-inspired variation.

Veggie Boosters

Mix in some diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots for added color, nutrition, and texture.

Fall Harvest Version

Add diced apple, dried cranberries, and swap the mozzarella for sharp cheddar for a seasonal autumn variation.

How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and grated Pecorino Romano. Whisk thoroughly or seal the jar and shake vigorously until the dressing is well emulsified.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large serving bowl, combine the shredded iceberg and romaine lettuces. Make sure the lettuce is thoroughly dried after washing to prevent a watery salad.

Step 3: Add the Proteins and Cheese

Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas, thinly sliced Italian salami, and shredded mozzarella cheese to the bowl with the lettuce.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Using tongs or two large spoons, toss everything thoroughly to ensure the dressing coats all components evenly.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

For the best texture and flavor, serve your La Scala salad right away. The crisp lettuce and freshly dressed ingredients are at their peak when just combined.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Shred, Don’t Chop: For authentic texture, shred the lettuce very finely rather than roughly chopping it. This allows the dressing to coat every piece perfectly.
Quality Ingredients Matter: Since this salad has relatively few ingredients, use the best quality you can find, especially for the salami and cheeses.
Temperature Matters: Let the salami and cheese come to room temperature before adding to the salad for maximum flavor.
Even Distribution: When tossing, lift from the bottom of the bowl to ensure all ingredients get evenly distributed and dressed.
Find True Italian Salami: Look for authentic Italian dry salami (not deli meat) in the specialty cheese section of your grocery store for the best flavor and texture.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

Serve this hearty salad with warm, crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks to complete the restaurant experience.

Make it a Meal

For a complete dinner, pair with a simple soup like tomato bisque or Italian wedding soup.

Serving Style

For an impressive presentation, serve in chilled bowls and offer additional grated cheese on the side for those who want an extra sprinkle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover dressed salad, it will keep for about 24 hours in the refrigerator, though the lettuce will soften somewhat.

Meal Prep Tips

Prepare all components separately and store in the refrigerator: shred the lettuce and keep it in a sealed bag with a paper towel to absorb moisture; mix the dressing and store in a jar; pre-portion the chickpeas, salami, and cheese. Assemble just before serving.

Dressing Storage

The dressing will keep well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring to room temperature and shake well before using.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

While the classic La Scala salad uses iceberg and romaine for their distinctive textures, you can experiment with other varieties. Just keep in mind that softer lettuces like butter or spring mix won’t provide the same satisfying crunch that makes this salad special.
Where do I find Italian salami and how is it different from regular salami?

Look for Italian dry salami (sometimes labeled as Genoa salami) in the specialty cheese section of your grocery store. Unlike deli-sliced salami, this type has a firmer texture and more concentrated flavor that stands up well to the other ingredients in the salad.
Can I make this salad ahead of time for a party?

Yes, but with a strategy! Prepare all components separately and combine just before serving. If you need to assemble slightly in advance, hold the dressing until the last minute to keep the lettuce crisp.
Is there a way to make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the salami and add extra chickpeas. For additional flavor, consider adding some marinated artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of capers to make up for the savory notes the salami provides.

Final Thoughts

This Famous La Scala Chopped Salad brings a taste of culinary history right to your table. What I love most about this recipe is how it transforms simple ingredients into something truly special through careful preparation and perfect balance. The contrasting textures and complementary flavors create a salad that’s satisfying enough to be a meal, yet elegant enough for company. Give yourself the gift of this 20-minute masterpiece – I promise your weeknight dinner routine will never be the same!