A burst of colors and fresh flavors greets you as you mix together The Scala Chopped Salad, inviting both the eye and the palate. This vibrant dish combines crisp vegetables with a simple yet zesty dressing, taking just 15 minutes to prepare. It works beautifully as a filling main dish or a refreshing side, elevating any meal with its delightful crunch.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a quick, healthy meal or side dish. It’s great for potlucks, meal prep, or a light lunch, and can be made ahead of time—just hold off on adding the dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep everything crisp.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of textures—from crunchy lettuce to creamy feta—is irresistible.
- It takes only 15 minutes to whip up, making it a speedy win.
- Seasonal veggies can be swapped in to keep it fresh and interesting.
- The dressing brings everything together with a tangy punch.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your salad masterpiece:
For the Salad
- 2 cups chopped Romaine lettuce
- 1 cup chopped cucumbers
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup olives
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, optional
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feta cheese can be omitted for a dairy-free version.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Romaine lettuce for butter lettuce
- Olive oil for avocado oil
- Feta cheese for crumbled goat cheese
- Olives can be swapped for capers
How to Make It
Creating this salad is a straightforward process.
1. Combine
In a large bowl, combine the chopped Romaine, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, bell peppers, and olives. This creates the fresh base of your salad.
2. Whisk
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Ensure it’s well mixed for even flavor.
3. Dress
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Be careful not to bruise the delicate ingredients.
4. Serve
Serve as a main dish or as a side with your favorite protein. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.
How to Store It
Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, due to texture changes.
Reheat: not applicable, serve cold.
Tips for Best Results
- Chop all vegetables evenly for a balanced bite.
- Allow the salad to sit for 5 minutes after dressing for flavors to meld.
- Use seasonal vegetables for the freshest taste.
- Avoid overdressing; you can always serve extra on the side.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
- Serve at a summer barbecue as a light side.
- Enjoy with a glass of wine for a refreshing lunch.
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