Classic Italian Chopped Salad
Indulge in the timeless flavors of the Classic Italian Chopped Salad, a vibrant and hearty dish inspired by the iconic creation from the La Scala restaurant in Los Angeles. Originally crafted in the 1950s, this delectable salad has stood the test of time, offering a delightful medley of crunchy lettuces, savory Italian salami, creamy mozzarella, and hearty garbanzo beans all brought together with a tangy homemade vinaigrette. Perfect for a refreshing lunch or an elegant dinner side, this salad is a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients that bring authentic Italian flavors to your table.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
vegetable oil
1/3 cup (none)
red wine vinegar
2 1/2 tablespoons (none)
dry mustard
1 teaspoon (optional: use 3/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard as substitute)
salt and pepper
to taste (none)
iceberg lettuce
1 head (rinsed and finely chopped)
romaine lettuce
1/3 head (rinsed and finely chopped)
italian salami
1/4 lb (julienned)
mozzarella cheese
1 cup (shredded)
garbanzo beans
15.5 oz can (rinsed and well-drained)
chopped tomato
optional (chopped)
basil leaves
optional (shredded)
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing the vinaigrette. In a small mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, red wine vinegar, and your choice of either dry mustard or Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk the ingredients together until the dressing is emulsified and smooth. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
2
Next, prepare the salad base. In a large salad bowl, combine the finely chopped iceberg and romaine lettuces. Add the julienned Italian salami, shredded mozzarella cheese, and well-drained garbanzo beans. Gently toss the ingredients to ensure an even distribution.
3
Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad, starting with a portion and adding more to taste as desired. Toss the salad thoroughly to ensure that each ingredient is well-coated with the dressing.
4
For an extra burst of freshness, garnish the salad with chopped tomatoes and shredded basil leaves, if using. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
5
This recipe serves four and can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Classic Italian Chopped Salad?
It is a vibrant and hearty dish featuring crunchy lettuces, Italian salami, mozzarella, and garbanzo beans with a tangy vinaigrette.
Which restaurant inspired this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by the iconic creation from the La Scala restaurant in Los Angeles.
When was the original recipe created?
The original salad was crafted in the 1950s.
What are the main components of the salad?
The salad consists of iceberg and romaine lettuce, Italian salami, mozzarella cheese, and garbanzo beans.
What type of lettuce is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one head of iceberg lettuce and one-third head of romaine lettuce.
How should the lettuce be prepared?
The lettuce should be rinsed and finely chopped.
What kind of meat is included?
The salad includes one-quarter pound of julienned Italian salami.
What type of cheese is used in the salad?
The recipe uses one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
How are the garbanzo beans prepared?
Use a 15.5 oz can of garbanzo beans that have been rinsed and well-drained.
What ingredients are in the vinaigrette?
The vinaigrette contains vegetable oil, red wine vinegar, dry mustard (or Dijon), salt, and pepper.
Can I substitute dry mustard in the dressing?
Yes, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dry mustard with 3/4 teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to prepare the vinaigrette by whisking oil, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper together.
How do I assemble the salad base?
Combine the chopped lettuces, julienned salami, shredded mozzarella, and drained garbanzo beans in a large bowl.
When should I add the dressing?
Pour the vinaigrette over the salad after combining the base ingredients, starting with a portion and adding more to taste.
What are the optional garnishes for this salad?
Optional garnishes include chopped tomatoes and shredded basil leaves.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes four servings.
Can this salad be served as a main course?
Yes, it can be enjoyed as either a main course or an elegant side dish.
What is the texture of the salad?
The salad offers a crunchy and hearty texture from the chopped lettuce and beans.
How much vegetable oil is needed for the dressing?
The recipe requires 1/3 cup of vegetable oil.
How much red wine vinegar is used?
The recipe calls for 2 1/2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar.
Is the salad served immediately?
Yes, it is recommended to serve the salad immediately after tossing with dressing for the best freshness.
How many total ingredients are in the recipe?
There are 11 ingredients listed in total.
What is the primary flavor profile?
The salad is savory and creamy with a tangy homemade vinaigrette.
Should the mozzarella be cubed or shredded?
The mozzarella should be shredded for this recipe.
How is the Italian salami cut?
The Italian salami should be julienned into thin strips.
Do I need to whisk the dressing?
Yes, whisk the dressing ingredients until the mixture is emulsified and smooth.
What kind of bowl should I use for mixing?
Use a large salad bowl to allow enough room to toss the ingredients thoroughly.
Is salt and pepper included in the dressing?
Yes, salt and pepper are added to the vinaigrette to taste.
Can I add basil to the salad?
Yes, shredded basil leaves are a great optional addition for an extra burst of freshness.
What type of beans are used in this Italian salad?
Garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, are used in this recipe.