La Scala's iconic chopped salad

The iconic La Scala Chopped Salad brings Beverly Hills celebrity dining to your kitchen with its perfect balance of crisp lettuce, salty Italian salami, and tangy dressing. This viral sensation—popularized by Kim Kardashian and now a TikTok favorite—delivers restaurant-quality flavor with everyday ingredients you can easily source and assemble at home. The combination of crunchy textures and bold flavors creates a salad that's hearty enough to stand alone as a satisfying meal yet versatile enough to complement your favorite protein.

I first tried recreating this salad after repeatedly seeing it on social media, skeptical that something so simple could live up to the hype. One bite in, I understood the obsession! The combination of textures and flavors creates something far greater than the sum of its parts—each forkful delivers the perfect bite with all elements represented.

Ingredients That Make All The Difference

• Italian salami: This isn't standard deli-counter salami but the dry-aged variety that comes in a log. Look for it near the specialty cheese section for authentic flavor and texture.
• Mixed lettuce: The combination of romaine and iceberg creates the ideal balance of flavor and crunch—romaine adds nutrients and a slight bitterness while iceberg provides that signature crispness.
• Pecorino Romano: This sheep's milk cheese delivers sharper, saltier notes than Parmesan, creating depth in the dressing. It's worth seeking out for the most authentic flavor.
• Red wine vinegar: Provides the perfect tangy counterpoint to the rich salami and cheese. Its acidity balances the olive oil beautifully in the dressing.
• Dijon mustard: Beyond adding flavor, it serves as an emulsifier that creates a silky, cohesive dressing that coats every ingredient perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by preparing your lettuce:

For the crispest result, finely shred equal parts romaine and iceberg lettuce, then soak in ice water for 5 minutes. This step revitalizes the lettuce, ensuring maximum crunch. After soaking, thoroughly dry the lettuce using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towels—excess water will dilute your dressing and create a soggy salad.

While the lettuce soaks:

prepare the dressing by combining 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 finely minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake vigorously until the mixture becomes slightly emulsified. The dressing should look creamy rather than separated.

For the salami:

find quality Italian dry-aged salami (not pre-sliced deli meat) and cut it into thin julienne strips about 1/4-inch wide and 1-inch long. The thin strips ensure even distribution throughout the salad, allowing the salami flavor to complement each bite without overwhelming. You'll need about 4-6 ounces, depending on your preference.

Prepare the remaining ingredients:

by draining and rinsing one 15-ounce can of chickpeas, patting them dry with paper towels. Shred 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese or use pre-shredded to save time. Having all components ready before assembly ensures the salad comes together quickly and evenly.

In a large mixing bowl:

combine the dried shredded lettuce, chickpeas, julienned salami, and shredded mozzarella. The proportions should be primarily lettuce with the other ingredients distributed throughout, but adjust according to your preference for a more or less hearty salad.

Just before serving:

give the dressing another vigorous shake to recombine any separated ingredients, then pour about three-quarters of it over the salad. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss the salad to ensure even coating. The goal is to lightly dress every ingredient without drowning the salad. Add additional dressing as needed until the salad is properly moistened but not soggy.

Serve immediately:

after tossing for the best texture and flavor. If preparing for a gathering, keep the components separate until just before serving, combining the ingredients and dressing at the last moment to maintain the salad's signature crunch.

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I discovered the importance of proper ingredient sizing through trial and error. My first attempt left the salami in chunks that overwhelmed other ingredients. Cutting it into thin strips creates a salad where every bite contains the perfect proportion of ingredients—one of the signature characteristics of this famous salad.

Creative Variations

While the classic version is perfect as is, this salad welcomes thoughtful adaptations. For a Greek-inspired version, substitute feta for mozzarella and add Kalamata olives, diced cucumber, and red onion. Transform it into an antipasto salad by adding roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, and pepperoncini. For a vegetarian option, replace the salami with roasted chickpeas seasoned with Italian herbs.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile salad shines in multiple settings. Serve it as a hearty lunch on its own, perhaps with a slice of crusty Italian bread. For dinner, pair it with grilled chicken or salmon for a complete meal. It makes an impressive starter for Italian-themed dinner parties or a refreshing side to balance rich pasta dishes. For casual gatherings, consider creating a deconstructed version where guests can assemble their own portions.

Make-Ahead Tips

For maximum convenience without sacrificing quality, prep components in advance. Wash and chop lettuce, store with a paper towel in an airtight container. Prepare other ingredients and store separately. Mix the dressing and refrigerate in a jar. When ready to serve, simply combine everything for a fresh salad in minutes. This approach is perfect for busy weeknight meals or entertaining.

I've come to treasure this recipe not just for its delicious results, but for how it elevates simple ingredients into something truly special. There's something deeply satisfying about creating a dish that famous restaurants charge premium prices for, using accessible ingredients and straightforward techniques. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or alongside a more elaborate dinner, this La Scala Chopped Salad proves that sometimes the most impressive recipes are also the most approachable.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes La Scala Chopped Salad famous?

The La Scala Chopped Salad became famous at the Beverly Hills restaurant where it originated. Its distinctive combination of finely chopped lettuce, Italian salami, chickpeas, and cheese with a tangy dressing has made it a celebrity favorite for decades.

→ Can I make La Scala Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it's best to store the dressing separately and combine everything just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the lettuce.

→ What can I substitute for Italian salami?

If you can't find Italian salami, you can substitute with pepperoni, prosciutto, or for a vegetarian option, use plant-based salami alternatives or simply omit it.

→ Is this La Scala Salad gluten-free?

Yes, this La Scala Chopped Salad recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! While the classic recipe is simple, you can add cherry tomatoes, red onions, bell peppers, or olives for extra flavor and nutrition.