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Craving that iconic La Scala chopped salad everyone raves about? I've cracked the code with this simple DIY version that brings upscale Beverly Hills taste straight to your home! My take on this star-studded favorite blends crunchy lettuce, tangy homemade dressing, and must-have toppings including salami strips and fresh mozzarella balls. The straightforward preparation delivers that authentic restaurant flavor!
What Makes This Worth Trying
This DIY salad always impresses guests! The simple approach combines all the best elements - zingy dressing, savory meat, and smooth cheese. My kids adore this at-home version because everyone can customize their own bowl. And it's super convenient for busy days - just store components separately and toss with dressing when you're hungry!
Ingredients You'll Want
- For The Dressing: Grab quality olive oil, some vinegar, minced garlic cloves, a bit of Dijon, and grated Pecorino.
- The Greens: Combine iceberg with romaine for this at-home creation.
- The Good Stuff: Don't forget chickpeas, sliced Italian salami, and chunks of fresh mozzarella.
- Extra Fun: My DIY version tastes amazing with tangy pepperoncini or sweet sun-dried tomatoes!
How To Make La Scala Salad
- Mix Your Dressing First
- This DIY dressing couldn't be easier - combine all ingredients in a jar and shake well. The simple preparation makes plenty for future salads!
- Get Your Veggies Ready
- For this straightforward approach, slice the lettuce into thin ribbons. Cut salami into matchsticks, and drain those chickpeas well.
- Combine Everything
- Grab your largest salad bowl and throw in all components for this DIY creation. Add just enough dressing to lightly coat everything.
- Enjoy Right Away
- This simple preparation tastes most fantastic when served immediately while everything remains perfectly crisp!
Insider Tricks
After many attempts at this DIY salad, I've discovered some secrets: Try to chop all ingredients roughly the same size for authentic texture. For extra-crunchy greens, soak them in ice water before drying. And don't skimp on ingredient quality - it truly transforms this at-home version into something special!
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Prep In Advance
This simple approach works great for planning! Cut and store all your DIY salad components separately. Just before eating, combine with fresh dressing. Got extras from your meal? They'll stay good for about 48 hours refrigerated, though your greens might lose some crunch.
Try New Variations
This DIY salad adapts to whatever you fancy! Leave out the meat for a plant-based alternative. Go Mediterranean with crumbled feta and kalamata olives. My partner loves his topped with slices of grilled chicken breast. You can even try different cheese options - there aren't any wrong choices!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of salami should I use?
- Look for Italian salami in specialty cheese section, not deli meat counter.
- → Can I make this ahead?
- Store components separately and combine just before serving to maintain crispness.
- → Why mix two types of lettuce?
- Iceberg provides crunch while romaine adds nutrition and flavor.
- → Can I substitute the cheese?
- While traditional, you can use parmesan instead of pecorino romano.
- → How finely should I chop ingredients?
- Chop everything into small, uniform pieces for true chopped salad texture.