La Scala Bean Salad bursts with vibrant flavors and textures that come together for a delightful culinary experience. This refreshing salad is perfect for summer days, picnics, or light dinners. With a mouthwatering mix of chickpeas, salami, and creamy mozzarella, your taste buds are sure to dance with joy. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up, making it an ideal addition to your mealtime lineup!
Recipe Guide:
What is La Scala Bean Salad?
Originating from the bustling culinary scene of Italy, La Scala Bean Salad showcases the fresh, wholesome ingredients typical of Mediterranean cooking. This delightful dish unites hearty chickpeas with savory ingredients like salami and marinated artichokes, offering a surprising twist that’s both satisfying and nourishing. With each bite, you’ll find a delightful medley of flavors that make La Scala Bean Salad not only filling but also refreshing.
Why You’ll Love This
You’ll love La Scala Bean Salad for its ease and versatility. In just about 15 minutes, you can create a stunning dish that’s perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it for days! Plus, it’s incredibly affordable; using canned chickpeas and easily accessible ingredients, this salad proves that tasty doesn’t have to break the bank.
One of the best parts is its taste—it’s hearty enough to stand alone as a meal yet light enough to enjoy as a side. With its colorful presentation and zesty dressing, La Scala Bean Salad is sure to impress family and friends alike, leaving them asking for seconds!
How to Make
Quick Overview
Making La Scala Bean Salad is straightforward and fun! You’ll need a large bowl for mixing and a jar for whipping up the dressing. This dish comes together in about 15 minutes, giving you a vibrant salad with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful salad:
. 2 (15oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
. 6 oz salami, sliced or julienned
. 1 1/2 cups mini mozzarella balls, halved or quartered
. 1/3 cup sliced sundried tomatoes
. 3/4 cup chopped marinated artichokes, drained
. 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
. Flaky salt and pepper to taste
. 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
. 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar
. 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder or dijon mustard
. 1/2 teaspoon salt
. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
. 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large glass bowl, combine all the salad ingredients: chickpeas, salami, mozzarella, sundried tomatoes, artichokes, and fresh basil. Toss gently to mix everything evenly.
- For the dressing, add the olive oil, vinegar, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper into a glass jar with a lid. Shake well until fully emulsified. Alternatively, use a small milk frother for a quick blend.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until all the ingredients are well coated. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with flaky salt and pepper, according to your preference.
- Serve by scooping portions into individual bowls and garnish with extra fresh basil, if desired. For meal prep, transfer the salad into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
What to Serve with La Scala Bean Salad
This delightful salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as lemon-herb chicken or pork skewers, for a well-rounded meal. You might also consider serving it alongside a crusty baguette or a light soup, like a refreshing gazpacho. To elevate your dining experience, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio can complement the flavors beautifully.
Top Tips for Perfecting La Scala Bean Salad
- Chill the Ingredients: For an extra refreshing salad, chill your salad ingredients and serving bowls before mixing.
- Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to substitute salami with other proteins like pepperoni or even grilled chicken for a different twist.
- Add Fresh Crunch: Toss in some diced cucumber or bell peppers for additional crunch and freshness.
- Flavor Boost: Consider marinating your chickpeas in herbs and spices a few hours beforehand for a deeper flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This salad lasts up to 4 days in the fridge—perfect for meal prep.
- Vinegar Choices: Try different vinegar options to switch up the taste, such as balsamic or apple cider vinegar.
- Garnish Creatively: Fresh herbs like parsley or a squeeze of lemon over the top can brighten the flavor even more!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your La Scala Bean Salad, place any leftovers in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold, so you won’t need to reheat it. Just give it a good shake or stir to remix the dressing before serving.
La Scala Bean Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a large glass bowl, combine all the salad ingredients: chickpeas, salami, mozzarella, sundried tomatoes, artichokes, and fresh basil. Toss gently to mix everything evenly.
- For the dressing, add the olive oil, vinegar, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper into a glass jar with a lid. Shake well until fully emulsified. Alternatively, use a small milk frother for a quick blend.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until all the ingredients are well coated. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with flaky salt and pepper, according to your preference.
- Serve by scooping portions into individual bowls and garnish with extra fresh basil, if desired. For meal prep, transfer the salad into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Notes
FAQs
Q: Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Just soak and cook the dried chickpeas beforehand until they’re tender.
Q: What can I use instead of salami?
A: You can substitute with turkey, chicken, or even omit the meat for a vegetarian option.
Q: Can La Scala Bean Salad be frozen?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, as the texture of some ingredients may suffer from freezing.
Conclusion
La Scala Bean Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors, making it a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying meal. Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer picnic or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe will soon become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So, gather your ingredients today and whip up a bowl of this delightful salad that’s sure to impress! Happy cooking and enjoy your La Scala Bean Salad!
More Resources
- 3-Bean Salad
- Ridiculously Easy Bean Salad
- Cowboy Caviar
- Mediterranean Dense Bean Salad
- Italian Dense Bean Salad
- The Ultimate Guide to Bean Salad: 15+ Healthy, Flavorful Recipes
- La Scala Restaurant – Beverly Hills History
- Bean Salad – Wikipedia
- Health Benefits of Beans – Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
- Mediterranean Diet – Mayo Clinic
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