Famous La Scala Chopped Salad

About This Recipe

The La Scala Chopped Salad is one of those dishes that has maintained its reputation for decades. Originating from a well-known restaurant in Beverly Hills during the mid-20th century, the salad gained popularity because of its clean, crisp texture and the way each ingredient is finely chopped to create a perfectly balanced bite. What makes it especially memorable is the signature vinaigrette that ties everything together—a blend of tangy, savory, and aromatic flavors that coat every piece of lettuce, cheese, and meat. 

 

This modern, homemade interpretation captures the essence of the original while offering a fresh and approachable method you can recreate in your own kitchen. The ingredients are simple, the preparation is straightforward, and the flavor is consistently dependable. Each forkful delivers a combination of crunch, creaminess, slight heat, and a savory tang from the dressing. The appeal of this salad lies in its texture and its harmony of flavors, making it a favorite for lunches, dinners, and gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes the La Scala Chopped Salad so enjoyable is its balance. Unlike many salads that depend on a single star ingredient, this one shines because everything is chopped into equal-sized pieces. This means each bite offers a little bit of everything—crisp lettuce, creamy cheese, savory salami, tangy pepperoncini, and nutty Parmesan.

The dressing is another highlight. Light but flavorful, it clings to the vegetables and proteins without making the salad heavy or soggy. The vinegar brings a refreshing brightness, the oregano offers subtle earthiness, and the olive oil softens the acidity with a smooth finish. Together, the dressing and chopped ingredients create a salad that is bold enough to stand on its own but versatile enough to accompany almost any main dish.

This recipe is also incredibly customizable. You can adjust the meats, cheeses, or vegetables without losing the character of the dish. Whether you're preparing a quick weekday lunch or serving friends at a dinner gathering, this salad delivers consistent flavor and presentation.

Ingredients

• 1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
• 1/2 cup salami, thinly sliced into strips
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, diced
• 1/2 cup chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup sliced pepperoncini
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by preparing the greens. Wash both the iceberg and romaine lettuces thoroughly, then dry them completely. Excess moisture prevents the dressing from coating the leaves properly, so ensure they are as dry as possible.

Chop the lettuces into small, uniform pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. The key to this salad is consistency—keeping everything roughly the same size guarantees a balanced combination in each forkful.

Add the salami, mozzarella cubes, chickpeas, red onion, and sliced pepperoncini to the bowl. These ingredients provide varying textures and flavors: creaminess from the cheese, slight heat from the pepperoncini, and savory richness from the salami.

To prepare the dressing, whisk the red wine vinegar and Dijon mustard together in a small bowl. Slowly stream in the olive oil while whisking vigorously to create a smooth, emulsified mixture. Once the oil is incorporated, add the minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Give the dressing a final whisk to ensure everything is well combined.

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Use large salad tongs or clean hands to toss everything thoroughly, making sure the dressing reaches every corner of the bowl. The flavor of this salad depends heavily on even coating, so take your time to mix it properly.

Once the salad is fully dressed, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese across the top. You can toss it again or leave the cheese as a finishing layer, depending on presentation preference.

FAQ

Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely. While the classic version sticks to the listed ingredients, you can include cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or substitute provolone for mozzarella. The salad is flexible and still maintains its signature taste even with small adjustments.

Is there a substitute for pepperoncini?
Yes. If pepperoncini are unavailable, banana peppers make a great alternative. They provide the same gentle heat and tangy bite that complements the dressing well.

Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
You can chop the ingredients in advance, but for the best texture, wait to add the dressing until just before serving. Dressing the salad too early can cause the lettuce to wilt and lose its crispness.

You Must Know

What makes this salad stand out is precision—small, even chopping and fully dried lettuce are critical. Moisture on the leaves dilutes the dressing and prevents it from clinging properly. The dressing should also be fully emulsified before pouring, ensuring a creamy, cohesive flavor that enhances every ingredient.

Another tip is to chill the salad ingredients before assembling. Cold lettuce and vegetables help maintain the crisp, refreshing texture that defines this dish.

Storage Tips

If you plan to store leftovers, keep the dressing separate. Undressed components can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours in airtight containers. Once dressed, the salad should be enjoyed immediately, as the vinaigrette softens the lettuce quickly.

Edit This Article