If you’re looking for a salad that bursts with fresh flavors, satisfying textures, and just the right touch of creaminess, you’ve got to try the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe. This delightful dish combines crisp romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and vibrant bell peppers with hearty garbanzo beans and tender chicken breast, all dressed in a tangy red wine vinaigrette. It’s like a celebration of summer in every bite, and it’s easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight or impress guests at your next gathering. Trust me, this salad quickly became one of my all-time favorites because it balances freshness and protein perfectly, making it as filling as it is refreshing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity and vibrant variety of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the crunchy veggies providing texture to the feta adding that creamy zing that keeps you coming back for more.
- 1 head romaine lettuce (chopped): The crisp and sturdy base of the salad, perfect for holding all the delicious toppings.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Brings a juicy sweetness and pops of bright red color.
- 1 cup cucumber (diced): Adds a refreshing crunch that keeps every bite lively.
- 1/2 cup red onion (finely chopped): Provides a bold, slightly sharp flavor to balance the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup radishes (thinly sliced): Gives a subtle peppery bite that adds excitement.
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (diced): Sweet and colorful, contributing both taste and aesthetics.
- 1 cup garbanzo beans (canned, drained, and rinsed): A protein-packed addition for heartiness and a creamy texture.
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast (diced): Tender, moist protein that turns this salad into a meal.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds a tangy creaminess that perfectly complements the veggies.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped): For a fresh, herbaceous finish and lovely green garnish.
- For the Dressing: 1/4 cup red wine vinegar, 1/2 cup olive oil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt and pepper to taste — these combine to create that perfect tangy, rich coating that brings everything together.
How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Vegetables
Start by tossing together the chopped romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, thinly sliced radishes, diced bell pepper, and protein-rich garbanzo beans in a large mixing bowl. Mixing these ingredients first helps marry the colors and textures so your salad already looks as amazing as it tastes.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Feta Cheese
Next, fold in the diced cooked chicken breast and crumbled feta cheese gently. These two ingredients add satisfying protein and creamy, salty bursts that elevate the salad from side dish to a hearty meal.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, vigorously whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, dried oregano, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This emulsified dressing is what ties all the flavors of the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe together, bringing brightness and richness in every bite.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing evenly over the salad mixture and toss gently to ensure each ingredient is lightly coated. Be careful not to overdress—you want the flavors balanced and fresh, not soggy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley on top for an herbal finish. Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors, or refrigerate it for up to one hour to let the tastes meld beautifully.
How to Serve Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
Garnishes
The chopped parsley garnish adds a vibrant green touch and fresh contrast while finely grated lemon zest or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can be fantastic optional garnishes if you want to take this salad up a notch.
Side Dishes
This salad stands out as a main dish but pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread, grilled vegetables, or even a light soup for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stylish dinner party, serve the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe in individual mason jars or clear bowls so the layered colors and textures shine through. Alternatively, present it on a large wooden board, letting guests help themselves—it’s a social way to enjoy this lively salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad without dressing in an airtight container for up to two days. Adding the dressing just before serving keeps the vegetables crisp and fresh.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended as it will affect the texture of the fresh vegetables and chicken.
Reheating
No reheating needed here since this salad is designed to be eaten cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, warm the chicken separately before mixing it into the salad.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely! While feta adds a signature tangy creaminess, you can swap it for goat cheese or even shredded Parmesan depending on your mood and what you have on hand.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as all its ingredients do not contain gluten. Just be sure to check any additional dressings or toppings to keep it safe.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Certainly! Grilled shrimp, tofu, or even hard-boiled eggs make excellent alternatives for a different protein profile while maintaining the salad’s heartiness.
How long will the salad keep its freshness after dressing?
For best texture and flavor, eat the salad within an hour after dressing it. If needed, it can hold for up to two hours refrigerated, though it may become slightly softer.
Can I prepare the salad components in advance?
Yes, you can chop and prep all vegetables and proteins a day ahead and store them separately in airtight containers. Assemble and dress the salad right before serving to keep everything crisp and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason the Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe has earned its place as a beloved classic—it’s fresh, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients that bring joy to every forkful. Whether you’re making it for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a special occasion, this salad promises a delightful experience that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Go ahead and give it a try—I’m confident it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes in no time!
Print
Famous La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Discover the fresh and flavorful Famous La Scala Chopped Salad, a vibrant mix of crunchy vegetables, protein-packed garbanzo beans and chicken, and a tangy red wine vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal, this salad combines texture and bold flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 head romaine lettuce (chopped)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup cucumber (diced)
- 1/2 cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup radishes (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (diced)
- 1 cup garbanzo beans (canned, drained, and rinsed)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast (diced)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Combine Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, sliced radishes, diced bell pepper, and garbanzo beans to create a fresh vegetable base.
- Add Protein and Cheese: Add the diced cooked chicken breast and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl with the vegetables. Gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed without bruising the vegetables.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, dried oregano, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper until the mixture is well combined and emulsified for a tangy, flavorful dressing.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss again to coat every ingredient evenly without crushing the delicate components.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by garnishing the salad with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately for the freshest taste or refrigerate up to 1 hour to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- Use fresh, crisp vegetables for the best texture.
- Can be prepared ahead but add dressing just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.
- Substitute grilled chicken with roasted turkey or tofu for variation.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- For a vegan version, omit chicken and feta and add avocado or nuts instead.
