The sun is shining, and it’s the perfect day for a refreshing salad that bursts with flavor. The Scala Chopped Salad is a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, chickpeas, and a tangy dressing that comes together in just 15 minutes. This recipe works beautifully because it balances crunch and creaminess, making each bite delightful.
This salad is perfect for anyone looking for a light yet satisfying dish, ideal for lunch or as a side at your next gathering. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day, allowing the flavors to meld.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of crunchy romaine and crisp cucumbers adds a satisfying texture.
- Fresh cherry tomatoes and red onions provide a burst of vibrant flavor.
- Protein-rich chickpeas make this salad filling enough for a main dish.
- The homemade dressing brings everything together with a tangy kick.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients:
For the Salad
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Use any olives you prefer for taste variety.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Romaine can be replaced with spinach.
- Feta can be swapped with goat cheese.
- Chickpeas may be substituted with white beans.
- Red wine vinegar can be exchanged for balsamic vinegar.
How to Make It
Start by combining the salad ingredients for a delicious mix.
1. Combine
In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, chickpeas, feta cheese, and olives.
2. Whisk
In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to combine.
4. Serve
Serve immediately as a main dish or alongside your favorite protein.
How to Store It
Fridge: up to 1 day in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, due to fresh ingredients.
Reheat: not applicable; best served chilled.
Tips for Best Results
- Chop the romaine and vegetables just before serving to retain freshness.
- Adjust the dressing to your taste; add more mustard for a stronger flavor.
- Use a variety of olives to enhance the Mediterranean flair.
- Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving for a refreshingly cool taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
- Serve at picnics or summer barbecues for a crowd-pleaser.
- Enjoy as a light lunch alongside whole grain bread.
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