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How to Make Famous La Scala Chopped Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop the Romaine: Wash and dry the Romaine lettuce (or mixed greens). Chop it into bite-sized pieces to make it easy to eat.
- Prepare the Other Ingredients: Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, slice the red onion, and chop the roasted red peppers and Kalamata olives. For the optional protein, chop the roasted chicken and crumble the crispy bacon.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, honey (if using), and salt and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is emulsified and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped Romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, roasted red peppers, basil, and crumbled blue cheese (or feta). If you’re adding chicken or bacon, toss those in as well.
- Toss with Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss well to combine. Make sure everything is evenly coated with the tangy dressing.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish: If desired, top the salad with additional crumbled blue cheese, fresh basil, or crispy bacon for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve Immediately: The salad is best served fresh. Enjoy as a light meal, side dish, or a refreshing starter to a larger meal.
Why This Salad is So Special
The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad stands out not only for its delicious taste but for its versatility. You can customize it to fit your dietary needs or preferences. For example:
- Vegan Option: Skip the cheese and add some avocado or chickpeas for protein. The olives and roasted red peppers will still deliver plenty of flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: This salad is naturally gluten-free, so it’s perfect for those avoiding gluten.
- More Protein: Add grilled shrimp, steak, or tofu to make this salad a full meal, or serve it alongside your favorite protein.
The beauty of the La Scala Chopped Salad is in its simplicity—by using high-quality, fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both refreshing and filling. The balance of flavors from the creamy cheese, tangy dressing, and savory olives makes each bite irresistible.
Tips for the Perfect La Scala Chopped Salad
- Use Fresh, Crisp Lettuce: For the best texture, be sure to use fresh Romaine lettuce (or any lettuce you prefer). The crunchiness of the greens is a key part of the salad’s appeal.
- Customize the Veggies: If you’re not a fan of certain ingredients (like red onions or Kalamata olives), feel free to substitute them with other veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even artichoke hearts.
- Let It Marinate: If you have time, let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes after tossing it with the dressing. This allows the flavors to meld together and the ingredients to soak up the tangy dressing.
Conclusion: A Refreshing and Flavorful Salad
The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is the perfect blend of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a creamy dressing that makes it an unforgettable dish. Whether served as a side or as a main course, it’s a great option for lunch, dinner, or a gathering with friends. So next time you’re craving a refreshing, flavor-packed salad, give this one a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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