The La Scala Chopped Salad is a true Hollywood legend. Created in the 1950s by Chef Jean Leon at the iconic La Scala restaurant in Beverly Hills, this crisp and tangy salad has been enjoyed by countless celebrities and recently went viral thanks to Kim Kardashian and TikTok.

Now you don’t need to be in Los Angeles to enjoy it—you can make this fresh, crunchy, and satisfying chopped salad right at home!
Why You’ll Love This Salad
✔ Crisp, Fresh, and Hearty – A mix of iceberg, romaine, salami, mozzarella, and chickpeas.
✔ Iconic Flavor – Just like the original Beverly Hills restaurant version.
✔ Customizable – Easy to adapt with different proteins or extra veggies.
✔ Healthy Yet Filling – Low carb, high protein, and satisfying enough for a main dish.
✔ Meal Prep Friendly – Make ahead and enjoy for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dressing:
- Olive oil – Smooth base for the vinaigrette.
- Red wine vinegar – Adds tangy brightness.
- Garlic – Freshly minced for bold flavor.
- Dijon mustard – Helps emulsify the dressing.
- Kosher salt & black pepper – To season.
- Pecorino Romano cheese – Classic choice (or substitute Parmesan).
For the Salad:
- Iceberg & romaine lettuce – Thinly shredded for the perfect crunch.
- Chickpeas – Adds plant-based protein and fiber.
- Italian salami – Look for dry-aged salami (not deli slices).
- Mozzarella cheese – Shredded fresh or pre-shredded.
How to Make La Scala Chopped Salad
1. Make the Dressing
Whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, Dijon, salt, pepper, and Pecorino Romano together in a bowl or shake in a jar with a lid until blended.
2. Combine the Salad
In a large bowl, add shredded iceberg and romaine, chickpeas, thinly sliced salami, and mozzarella. Pour the dressing over the top.
3. Toss and Serve
Toss everything until coated, then serve right away for the freshest crunch.
Expert Tips
- Shred everything finely – The even texture is what makes chopped salad irresistible.
- Ice water trick – Soak shredded lettuce in ice water for 5 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Use quality ingredients – With so few components, fresh lettuce, real salami, and good cheese make a big difference.
- Prep ahead – Store components separately and toss with dressing just before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
- Make it vegetarian – Skip the salami and add extra chickpeas.
- Add Italian flair – Toss in red onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or pepperoncini.
- Make it Greek – Use feta, cucumbers, olives, and cherry tomatoes.
- Change the protein – Swap salami for pepperoni, grilled chicken, or even shrimp.
- Cheese options – Try Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for different flavors.
Storage
- Make ahead – Chop ingredients and prepare dressing in advance; store separately.
- Leftovers – Best enjoyed within 1–2 days. Keep dressing separate if possible to avoid soggy lettuce.
Why It’s Famous
The La Scala Chopped Salad has been on the menu since the 1950s and has served countless Hollywood stars. Recently, it became internet-famous when Kim Kardashian mentioned it as one of her go-to salads. Whether you call it the “La Scala Salad” or the “Kim Kardashian Salad,” one thing is certain—it’s a timeless classic worth making at home.
Try More Fresh Salads
- [Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad]
- [Strawberry Spinach Salad]
- [Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad]
- [Lemon Orzo Salad]
✨ Bring a taste of Beverly Hills to your kitchen with this legendary La Scala Chopped Salad—fresh, crunchy, and totally addictive!
Famous La Scala Chopped Salad (Viral Beverly Hills Recipe)
4
servings30
minutesThis famous La Scala Chopped Salad is fresh, hearty, and so easy to make at home! Toss the tangy dressing with crisp lettuce, salami, chickpeas, and mozzarella for a delicious salad that works as a main dish or a side.
Ingredients
For the Dressing:
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 teaspoons Dijon mustard (or 1 teaspoon dry mustard)
½ teaspoon kosher salt & black pepper
⅓ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (or Parmesan)
For the Salad:
1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded (5–6 cups)
1 head romaine lettuce, shredded (4–5 cups)
1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
¼ lb (4 ounces) Italian salami, thinly sliced
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
- Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, garlic, Dijon, salt, pepper, and Pecorino Romano until combined.
- Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, add iceberg, romaine, chickpeas, salami, and mozzarella. Pour the dressing over the top.
- Toss & Serve
- Toss until everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.



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