Scala Chopped Salad

Scala Chopped Salad is not just a dish; it’s a vibrant celebration of fresh ingredients and wholesome flavors. This salad combines crisp vegetables, creamy cheese, and zesty dressing to create a satisfying, nutritious meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a side at a barbecue, Scala Chopped Salad is versatile, colorful, and bursting with goodness. Ready to dive into the details? Let’s explore why this salad will become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love It

When life gets busy, having a go-to recipe like Scala Chopped Salad can be a lifesaver. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also checks all the boxes for a healthful meal. Imagine a plate filled with vibrant greens, juicy tomatoes, and dichromatic peppers that make your taste buds dance. The freshness of this salad not only nourishes your body but also lifts your spirits.

Eating Scala Chopped Salad can transform a mundane meal into a delightful experience. The combination of ingredients provides a variety of textures and flavors. Crunchy vegetables bring a satisfying crunch, while the creaminess of feta cheese ties everything together beautifully. Plus, you have the delightful contrast of the salty olives and the tangy dressing, which creates an addictive flavor profile that you’ll crave time and again.

Emotionally, preparing Scala Chopped Salad can be therapeutic. Slicing, dicing, and mixing fresh ingredients in your kitchen can act as a much-needed break from a hectic day. Furthermore, sharing this colorful dish with family and friends enhances connection over good food and good company. Serve this salad at a gathering, and you’ll undoubtedly receive compliments for its bright look and delicious taste.

Ingredients

To make Scala Chopped Salad, you will need the following ingredients:

1 head of romaine lettuce
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cucumber
1 bell pepper (any color you prefer)
1 small red onion
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas
4 oz feta cheese
1/2 cup Kalamata olives
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s dive deeper into these ingredients. The foundation of each Scala Chopped Salad begins with a crisp head of romaine lettuce, which serves as the perfect base. Bright and crunchy, it adds both texture and green goodness. Next, you’ll gather bite-sized cherry tomatoes, packed with flavor and color. A refreshing cucumber brings coolness, while the bell pepper—choose red, yellow, or green—adds its signature crunch and sweetness.

You’ll also want to prepare a small red onion; slicing it thinly gives just the right amount of zing. For protein and additional texture, canned chickpeas are a fabulous option. They add heartiness, making the salad more filling. Crumbled feta cheese provides a delightful creaminess that perfectly balances the tartness of Kalamata olives, whose rich flavor significantly enhances the salad. Finally, the dressing comprising olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard acts as the finishing touch, tying all the flavors together beautifully.

Mixing these ingredients creates a beautifully colorful and nutrient-packed dish that will brighten your table and your day.

How to Make Scala Chopped Salad

Step 1

Begin your salad journey by gathering all of your fresh vegetables. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water. This ensures that any dirt or residue is washed away, making your salad not only tasty but safe to consume. After rinsing, it’s time to chop. Start with the romaine lettuce, roughly slicing it into bite-sized pieces. Then move on to halving the cherry tomatoes and dicing the cucumber, making sure to create pieces that are small enough to enjoy in every forkful. Next, chop your colorful bell pepper, and finally, take that small red onion and slice it as thin as possible. The goal here is to have a variety of textures and colors that will make your salad visually appealing and full of flavor.

Step 2

Next, it’s time to introduce the protein component of your salad. If you are using canned chickpeas, open the can and drain any excess liquid. Rinse them thoroughly to remove the canned taste. These little legumes will not only add creaminess but also increase the overall protein content of your salad. Once you’ve prepared the chickpeas, add them into a spacious mixing bowl along with the chopped vegetables. Then, it’s time to sprinkle in the crumbled feta cheese, followed by the sliced Kalamata olives. Make sure that every ingredient is within reach, as you will soon combine all these delicious components to create your Scala Chopped Salad.

Step 3

Now comes the fun part—making the dressing! In a separate small bowl, add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients together until they form a cohesive dressing. You want to create an emulsified mixture that combines the oil and vinegar into a delightful sauce without any separation. Next, season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. It’s essential to taste the dressing at this stage so that you can adjust the seasonings according to your preference. The dressing should be zesty enough to enhance the flavors of your salad without overpowering them.

Step 4

Once you’ve created your dressing, it’s time to bring everything together. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the bowl and gently toss everything together. Use a spatula or large spoon to ensure that every piece of vegetable and cheese is coated with the zesty dressing. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients should shine through, making this salad truly irresistible. You can serve your Scala Chopped Salad immediately or, for an enhanced flavor experience, let it sit for about 15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld, creating an even more delicious dish.

Directions

To make Scala Chopped Salad, begin by preparing your vegetables: rinse them well, chop the romaine lettuce, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, chop the bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion. If you’re using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them, then add them to a mixing bowl with the other chopped vegetables. Crumble the feta cheese and add the sliced olives to the mix. In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to combine until everything is well coated. Serve immediately or let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Helpful Notes

When making a Scala Chopped Salad, you’re in control. You can customize the ingredients according to your tastes or dietary restrictions. For example, if you prefer a dairy-free option, try replacing the feta with avocado or a dairy-free cheese substitute to maintain the creaminess. Want extra crunch? Toss in nuts such as toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for additional flavor and health benefits.

Additionally, you can swap out the chickpeas for black beans or quinoa if you’re seeking a different protein source. The versatility of this salad allows you to experiment with the composition by including seasonal vegetables or your favorite grains. Do not hesitate to make this dish your own.

Storage & Reheating Tips

One of the great things about Scala Chopped Salad is its storage capacity. If you’re making it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate from the salad mixture. This way, when you’re ready to serve, your salad will remain fresh and crunchy. Place the chopped salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to three days without losing its charm.

When it comes to the dressing, store it in a separate jar or container. It’s best consumed within a week, but you can always adjust the ingredients for a fresher taste before serving. If you’re preparing the salad for a crowd or meal prep, consider using hearty vegetables such as cabbage or kale, which can withstand sitting in the fridge for a longer period without becoming soggy.

If you’re looking for a quick meal later in the week, make a larger batch and mix about half the amount of dressing into the salad to keep it crunchier. When you’re ready to eat, simply add a bit more dressing, toss it together, and enjoy!

FAQs

What can I substitute for chickpeas in Scala Chopped Salad?

You can easily substitute chickpeas with black beans, lentils, or even diced cooked chicken for a non-vegetarian option.

Can I make Scala Chopped Salad vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.

How long does Scala Chopped Salad last in the fridge?

This salad can last up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two to maintain freshness.

What additional toppings can I add?

Feel free to add avocados, croutons, or different types of cheeses, such as goat cheese or Parmesan, for extra flavor and texture.

Can I eat Scala Chopped Salad for breakfast?

Absolutely! Scala Chopped Salad can offer a refreshing and nutritious breakfast option if you add some protein like eggs or leftover chicken.

Is Scala Chopped Salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in Scala Chopped Salad are gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

How can I make Scala Chopped Salad spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing or salad mix.

Conclusion + CTA

In conclusion, Scala Chopped Salad is a delightful and versatile dish that brings joy to your table. From fresh ingredients to bold flavors, it’s a perfect choice for any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for yourself, a family gathering, or a celebratory feast, this salad never disappoints. So why not bring Scala Chopped Salad into your kitchen today? Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll undoubtedly feed your body and soul with every bite! Don’t wait—gather your ingredients and start your fresh salad adventure now!