Welcome to the world of the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad! This fresh and colorful dish bursts with flavor and is perfect for any meal. With a mix of crisp vegetables, tangy feta, and a zesty dressing, you’ll want to enjoy it again and again. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this salad is simple and satisfying. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful dish!
Ingredients
Fresh Vegetables
– 2 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup iceberg lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
– 1/4 cup banana peppers, sliced
– 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped
The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is all about fresh vegetables. Each one adds its own taste. Romaine and iceberg lettuces give a nice crunch. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. Cucumbers bring a cool bite. Red onions offer a sharp flavor that balances the salad. Red bell peppers give a touch of sweetness. Kalamata olives add a burst of salty goodness. Roasted red peppers add depth, while banana peppers introduce a hint of heat. Finally, fresh parsley adds a bright touch.
Cheese
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Feta cheese is key in this salad. Its creamy texture contrasts with the crisp veggies. It also adds a salty flavor that enhances the overall taste. Crumble it well so every bite has some cheese.
Dressing Components
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
The dressing is where the magic happens. Extra virgin olive oil is rich and flavorful. Red wine vinegar gives it a tangy kick. Dijon mustard adds a nice depth. Honey balances the acidity with a touch of sweetness. Salt and pepper add the final touch to make the flavors pop. Whisk them together, and drizzle it over the salad. You can find the Full Recipe to enjoy this delicious dish anytime.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Salad
– Combine Romaine and iceberg lettuce in a large bowl.
– Add cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and red bell pepper.
– Incorporate Kalamata olives and finely chopped parsley.
When mixing the greens, I like to use a gentle hand. This keeps the leaves crisp and fresh. The sweet taste of tomatoes and the crunch of cucumber add delightful texture.
Making the Dressing
– Whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar in a small bowl.
– Add Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to taste.
The dressing is key to this salad. I find that good olive oil makes a big difference. The honey adds a touch of sweetness that balances the vinegar’s tang.
Combining Ingredients
– Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture.
– Gently fold in crumbled feta cheese.
– Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving.
Letting the salad rest helps the flavors meld. This dish tastes even better after sitting a bit. The feta adds a creamy texture that complements the veggies nicely. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions provided.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Freshness
– Use fresh produce for best flavor. Fresh veggies make a big difference.
– Store ingredients separately until serving. This keeps everything crisp and tasty.
Enhancing Flavor
– Let the salad sit to meld flavors. This helps all the tastes blend well.
– Adjust dressing quantities to taste. Everyone likes different amounts of dressing.
Serving Suggestions
– Perfect as a side or light main. This salad fits many meal types.
– Pair with grilled chicken or fish. The salad complements these proteins nicely.
For more details, check the Full Recipe. It gives you all the steps to create this vibrant dish.
Variations
Adding Proteins
You can make your La Scala chopped salad heartier by adding proteins. Grilled chicken or shrimp works well. They add great flavor and texture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use chickpeas. They are full of protein and easy to add. Just toss them in with your veggies.
Alternate Dressings
Switch up the dressing for different tastes. You can use balsamic vinegar for a sweet tang. A yogurt-based dressing brings a creamy twist. Try adding fresh herbs like basil or dill. These herbs give the salad a fresh and bright taste.
Seasonal Ingredients
Using seasonal ingredients is a fun way to change the salad. In summer, add ripe avocados for creaminess. In spring, try fresh peas for a pop of color. Seasonal herbs, like mint or cilantro, can also enhance freshness. They bring unique flavors to your dish. The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad can be fresh and different every time you make it!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To keep your Famous La Scala Chopped Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps keep out air and moisture. The salad tastes best when eaten within 1-2 days of making it. The flavors stay bright and crunchy during this time.
Prepping Ahead
If you want to prepare ahead, chop the veggies and make the dressing separately. This keeps everything fresh. Combine the salad and dressing just before serving for the best taste. You can enjoy a quick meal without losing flavor.
Freezing Considerations
Freezing this salad is not a good idea. Fresh ingredients lose their great taste and texture when frozen. You might end up with a mushy salad. Enjoy it fresh for the best experience! For the full recipe, check out the complete guide.
FAQs
What is La Scala Chopped Salad?
La Scala Chopped Salad comes from a famous restaurant in Beverly Hills. This dish has a rich history and a loyal following. People love it for its bright flavors and colorful ingredients. It combines fresh veggies, olives, and feta cheese for a delightful crunch. It has become a popular choice for a light meal or side dish.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. Prepare the veggies and dressing separately. Store them in airtight containers. This way, the salad stays fresh for about 1-2 days. Mix everything just before serving for the best taste.
What other ingredients can I add?
You can customize your salad with many ingredients. Try adding grilled chicken for protein. Avocado adds creaminess. You might also like chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies and herbs.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make La Scala Salad vegan, swap the feta cheese for tofu or avocado. Use a non-dairy dressing, like a lemon-tahini mix. This way, you still enjoy a creamy texture without using dairy.
What are some drink pairings?
Pair this salad with light drinks. A crisp white wine works well, like Sauvignon Blanc. You can also enjoy it with sparkling water or iced tea. These drinks enhance the fresh flavors of the salad.
For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section!
This blog post covered the essential aspects of making a La Scala Chopped Salad. We explored fresh vegetables, key cheeses, and flavorful dressings. By following the step-by-step instructions, you can create a tasty dish that stands out. Remember to keep ingredients fresh and experiment with variations to suit your taste. With these tips and storage advice, your salad will be both delicious and easy to prepare. Enjoy creating your salad, and make it your own!
