La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe (Famous Beverly Hills Salad)

The La Scala Chopped Salad is an iconic, flavorful, and refreshing dish made famous by the legendary Beverly Hills restaurant, La Scala. This classic Italian-inspired chopped salad features crisp romaine, garbanzo beans, salami, and cheese, all tossed in a simple yet irresistible mustard-parmesan dressing.

Known for its perfectly balanced textures and bold flavors, this celebrity-favorite salad is an easy, make-ahead meal that works as a light lunch, side dish, or healthy dinner.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Sharp knife & cutting board

Ingredients Overview

• Romaine Lettuce: Crisp, fresh, and the perfect base for this salad.
• Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas): Adds protein and a creamy texture.
• Salami: Provides a savory, salty bite (can be omitted for a vegetarian version).
• Mozzarella & Parmesan: Adds richness and depth.
• Mustard-Parmesan Dressing: A light yet flavorful dressing that ties everything together.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 large head romaine lettuce, finely chopped
• 1 cup garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup finely chopped salami (or turkey for a lighter version)
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, diced (optional)

For the Dressing

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon grated Parmesan (for extra depth)

Directions

Step 1: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic, salt, black pepper, and Parmesan.
2. Set aside to allow the flavors to blend while preparing the salad.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, add chopped romaine, garbanzo beans, mozzarella, Parmesan, and salami.
2. Toss gently to combine.

Step 3: Toss & Serve

1. Drizzle the mustard-parmesan dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
2. Serve immediately, or let sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Total Time

15 minutes

Nutrition (per serving, ~4 servings)

• Calories: ~320
• Fat: ~24g
• Carbohydrates: ~15g
• Protein: ~14g

Expert Tips

• For the Best Texture: Chop all ingredients into small, uniform pieces.
• Let the Salad Rest: Allowing it to sit for 10 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully.
• For Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prep all ingredients and store separately. Toss with dressing before serving.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in the fridge for up to 2 days, but keep the dressing separate to prevent sogginess.

What can I substitute for salami?
Try grilled chicken, turkey, or even roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

Storing & Freezing

• Storing: Keep salad undressed in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as fresh ingredients lose their texture.

Substitutions & Variations

• Dairy-Free: Omit cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
• Low-Carb: Skip chickpeas or replace with chopped nuts.
• Extra Crunch: Add croutons, sunflower seeds, or crispy shallots.

La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe (Famous Beverly Hills Salad)

The **La Scala Chopped Salad** is an **iconic, flavorful, and refreshing dish** made famous by the legendary Beverly Hills restaurant, La Scala.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Equipment

• - Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• - Sharp knife & cutting board

Ingredients

  

• #### **For the Salad**
• - 1 large head romaine lettuce finely chopped
• - 1 cup garbanzo beans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• - 1/2 cup finely chopped salami or turkey for a lighter version
• - 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes diced (optional)
• #### **For the Dressing**
• - 1/3 cup olive oil
• - 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• - 1/2 teaspoon salt
• - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• - 1 clove garlic minced
• - 1/2 teaspoon grated Parmesan for extra depth

Instructions

 

• #### **Step 1: Make the Dressing**
• In a small bowl, whisk together **olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic, salt, black pepper, and Parmesan**.
• Set aside to allow the flavors to blend while preparing the salad.
• #### **Step 2: Assemble the Salad**
• In a **large mixing bowl**, add **chopped romaine, garbanzo beans, mozzarella, Parmesan, and salami**.
• Toss gently to combine.
• #### **Step 3: Toss & Serve**
• Drizzle the **mustard-parmesan dressing** over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
• Serve immediately, or let sit for **10-15 minutes** to allow the flavors to meld.