Tangy La Scala Chopped Salad with Italian Dressing
This Tangy La Scala Chopped Salad with Italian Dressing is a crisp, refreshing mix of finely chopped lettuce, chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, and cheese tossed in a zesty homemade Italian vinaigrette. Light yet satisfying, it delivers bold flavor, perfect balance, and classic restaurant-style freshness in every vibrant bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad captures the essence of the iconic La Scala chopped salad but elevates it with a tangy, herb-forward Italian dressing that ties everything together beautifully. Every bite delivers crunch, freshness, and a bright, zesty flavor that feels both light and satisfying.
It’s quick to prepare, requires no cooking, and is highly customizable based on what you have in your kitchen. The finely chopped ingredients ensure perfect flavor distribution, making each forkful balanced and delicious. Whether you serve it as a main meal or a side dish, this salad is refreshing, wholesome, and effortlessly elegant.
Tangy La Scala Chopped Salad with Italian Dressing
Crisp chopped salad with chickpeas, lettuce, and tangy Italian dressing for a fresh, vibrant, restaurant-style meal.
Ingredients
- 1 large head romaine lettuce, finely chopped
- ½ head iceberg lettuce, finely chopped
- 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shaved
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Italian Dressing
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Begin by thoroughly washing the romaine and iceberg lettuce under cold water. Dry completely using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towels to ensure crisp texture.
- Finely chop both lettuces into small, uniform pieces and transfer them to a large mixing bowl for the classic La Scala base.
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then allow them to dry completely before adding to the bowl to avoid excess moisture.
- Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and finely dice the red onion, then distribute them evenly over the lettuce and chickpeas.
- Add grated or shaved Parmesan cheese, ensuring it is spread evenly throughout the salad for consistent flavor in every bite.
- In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper until fully emulsified.
- Allow the dressing to rest for a few minutes so the flavors meld together and intensify.
- Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving to maintain crispness and prevent sogginess.
- Gently toss all ingredients together until evenly coated with the tangy Italian dressing.
- Transfer to serving bowls or a platter and serve immediately for the freshest, most vibrant flavor and texture.
Notes
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 367Total Fat 24gSaturated Fat 7gUnsaturated Fat 17gCholesterol 27mgSodium 889mgCarbohydrates 24gFiber 7gSugar 5gProtein 15g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Finely chop all ingredients for the signature La Scala texture.
- Use freshly made Italian dressing for best flavor.
- Chill vegetables before assembling for extra crunch.
- Dry lettuce thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
- Add dressing just before serving.
- Use sharp knife for even, clean cuts.
- Taste dressing and adjust vinegar for tanginess.
- Fresh herbs enhance flavor and aroma.
- Do not overdress the salad.
- Serve immediately for best freshness.
Ingredients Notes
Romaine and iceberg lettuce create a crisp, refreshing base that holds up well to the tangy Italian dressing. Chickpeas add protein and heartiness, making the salad more filling. Cherry tomatoes bring natural sweetness and juiciness, balancing the acidity of the dressing.
Red onion provides a sharp bite that enhances flavor depth, while Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty richness. The Italian dressing, made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, and Dijon mustard, delivers a bright, tangy flavor that defines this salad’s signature taste. Each ingredient works together to create a perfectly balanced Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Variations and Substitutions
This salad can easily be adapted to suit your taste. Swap chickpeas with white beans or lentils for a different texture. Feta or mozzarella can replace Parmesan for a creamier variation.
Add grilled chicken, tuna, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein. Cucumber, olives, or roasted red peppers can enhance Mediterranean flavor. For a sweeter dressing, add a touch of honey. Spinach or arugula can replace romaine for a different leafy base. Fresh basil or parsley can be added for extra herbal freshness.
Storage Options
Store chopped vegetables separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep Italian dressing in a sealed jar for up to 1 week.
Do not store dressed salad, as it will lose its crisp texture.
Combine ingredients only before serving for best results.
Leftover dressing can be reused for other salads or marinades.
Please share this Tangy La Scala Chopped Salad with Italian Dressing with your friends and do a comment below about your feedback.
We will meet you on next article.
Until you can read, Spicy La Scala Chopped Salad with Jalapeños and Cilantro
