Can I make La Scala Italian Chopped Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can absolutely prep the La Scala Italian Chopped Salad in advance—just make sure to store the ingredients and dressing separately. Chop the lettuce, salami, and other components and keep them in airtight containers. When you're ready to serve, toss everything together with the dressing for maximum crunch and flavor. This method keeps your salad fresh and prevents sogginess. Pro tip : You can also mix the dressing 2–3 days ahead—it often tastes better after resting!

What’s the best cheese to use in the dressing?

The original La Scala Italian Chopped Salad uses Pecorino Romano , which gives the dressing a sharp, salty, umami flavor. If you want a milder option, grated Parmesan works well too. Both cheeses help thicken the dressing and add richness. For dairy-free versions, nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan alternatives offer a similar nutty depth.

Is La Scala chopped salad gluten-free?

Yes, the La Scala Italian Chopped Salad is naturally gluten-free—no bread, pasta, or gluten-containing grains are involved. Just be mindful when choosing processed items like salami or Dijon mustard, as some brands may include gluten-based additives.

How do I make it without salami or meat?

For a vegetarian or lighter version of the La Scala Italian Chopped Salad , simply omit the salami and replace it with: -Grilled tofu -Roasted chickpeas -Sliced olives or artichokes -Extra mozzarella or white beans These options still deliver the savory punch and satisfying texture the salad is known for.

The Irresistible La Scala Italian Chopped Salad – TikTok’s Most Iconic 10-Minute Recipe!

Name: La Scala Italian Chopped Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 head iceberg lettuce, finely chopped; 1 head romaine lettuce, finely chopped; 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and dried; 4 oz Italian salami, thinly sliced or chopped; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard; ⅓ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese; Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Description

The viral La Scala Italian Chopped Salad is a crunchy, protein-packed dish featuring finely chopped romaine, iceberg, chickpeas, salami, mozzarella, and a bold red wine vinaigrette. Perfect for quick lunches or light dinners, it’s a celebrity-favorite salad made famous by TikTok—and now, you can make it in under 15 minutes!

Ingredients

1 head iceberg lettuce, finely chopped
1 head romaine lettuce, finely chopped
1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and dried
4 oz Italian salami, thinly sliced or chopped
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
⅓ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and Pecorino Romano. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Prep the Lettuce: Wash and pat dry the iceberg and romaine lettuce. Finely chop both for even texture.
Prepare Chickpeas: Rinse and dry chickpeas well. Optional: Roast in oven for 10 minutes at 400°F for added crunch.
Slice the Salami: Thinly slice or dice the Italian salami for even distribution.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, chickpeas, salami, and mozzarella cheese.
Add Dressing & Toss: Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly. Serve immediately and garnish with extra cheese if desired.

Notes

For the freshest flavor, use high-quality olive oil and freshly grated Pecorino Romano. Keep lettuce dry to avoid sogginess. Dressing can be prepared 2–3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No Cook
Cuisine: Italian