Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite summertime treat—La Scala Chicken Salad! This vibrant dish has been a staple in my kitchen, especially during those warm months. It’s refreshing, hearty, and packed with flavors that dance on your palate. I usually whip this up when I’m trying to impress guests, but it’s effortlessly easy enough for a cozy dinner at home.
I remember the first time I made this dish. I was hosting a summer barbecue, and I realized I forgot to plan for a side dish. With a quick rummage through my fridge and pantry, this colorful salad was born, and it stole the show! Now it’s a family favorite, and sometimes, I even find myself sneaking a spoonful right from the mixing bowl!
What’s in La Scala Chicken Salad?
Let’s dive into the deliciousness that makes up this fantastic salad:
Romaine Lettuce: Crunchy, crisp, and refreshing, romaine serves as the perfect bed for all the savory toppings. I personally love using fresh, organic lettuce when I can find it!
Cooked Chicken Breast: Diced or shredded, it adds a protein punch that makes this salad quite filling. Grilled leftovers work wonderfully!
Chickpeas: These little legumes bring a nutty flavor along with some fiber and protein. I always go for canned chickpeas for simplicity—just make sure to drain and rinse them well.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Because who doesn’t love cheese? It melts beautifully in your mouth and adds a creamy texture that compliments the other ingredients.
Diced Ham: This is a game-changer! It adds a touch of saltiness that enhances the overall flavor profile. If you prefer a lighter dish, feel free to skip it!
Green Onions: Fresh and fragrant, they add a lovely crunch and mild onion flavor. You can never go wrong with these!
Celery: Crisp and crunchy, it provides a refreshing bite that complements all the creamy elements.
Mayonnaise: The base of our dressing gives a rich creaminess. I recommend using a quality mayo or even some light mayo if you’re watching those calories.
Dijon Mustard: A spoonful of Dijon elevates our dressing with its tangy flavor that balances the richness of the mayo.
White Vinegar or Lemon Juice: This zingy ingredient adds acidity to brighten the entire salad. I usually reach for lemon juice for a fresh twist!
Salt and Pepper: Trust me, don’t skip on seasoning! It brings all the flavors together beautifully.
Is La Scala Chicken Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad is a delightful mix of nutrients.
Romaine Lettuce and celery provide fiber and hydration. And let’s not forget about those chickpeas; they’re fantastic for digestion and are packed with protein, perfect if you’re looking to fuel up! The chicken breast is lean, making it a great source of protein that will keep you feeling full for longer.
However, keep in mind that the mayonnaise can add a good number of calories. If you’re watching your intake, there are lighter alternatives available, or, depending on your preferences, you can swap it out for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. Just remember, like all good things, moderation is key!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to serve about 4 people:
– 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup diced ham
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– 1/4 cup celery, diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make La Scala Chicken Salad?
Ready to toss this together? Here’s how to make it:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, diced chicken, chickpeas, shredded mozzarella cheese, diced ham, green onions, and diced celery.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing is where the magic happens!
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Don’t be shy; culinary exploration is half the fun!
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving. If you can resist that long, of course!
Salad Secrets: Tips and Variations
Here are a few of my favorite ways to jazz this salad up:
– Want to add more crunch? Toss in some sliced almonds or walnuts for a delightful texture.
– Swap the chickpeas for black beans for a different flavor twist that’s equally delicious.
– Feeling adventurous? Add some chopped apples or grapes for a touch of sweetness.
– This salad works beautifully as a filling for wraps or pita bread!
So, my friend, get ready to enjoy a bowl of La Scala Chicken Salad that’s as delightful to eat as it is easy to prepare. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out—tag me in your culinary creations and let me know if you made any spin-offs! Happy salad-making!
