Scala Chopped Salad with Marinated Chickpeas is a delightful and hearty salad that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the crispness of romaine and iceberg lettuce with the savory flavors of Calabrese salami, Asiago cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and marinated artichoke hearts. The marinated chickpeas add a protein-packed punch, making this salad both satisfying and nutritious. Let’s dive into the detailed recipe and learn how to create this flavorful dish.
Ingredients
For the Marinated Chickpeas:
- ¼ cup DeLallo extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 small clove garlic, pressed
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 15-ounce can of chickpeas, drained
For the Salad:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 4 cups iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 3 ounces Calabrese salami or pepperoni, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup grated Asiago cheese
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- ¼ cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped into bite-sized pieces
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chickpeas
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 pressed small clove of garlic, 1 teaspoon dry mustard, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Marinate Chickpeas: Add the drained chickpeas to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad
- Chop the Lettuce: In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of chopped romaine lettuce and 4 cups of chopped iceberg lettuce.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the thinly sliced Calabrese salami or pepperoni, ⅓ cup grated Asiago cheese, ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and ¼ cup chopped marinated artichoke hearts to the bowl.
- Add Marinated Chickpeas: Once the chickpeas have marinated, add them to the salad along with the remaining marinade.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Toss the Salad: Toss all the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed and well coated with the marinade.
- Serve: Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for an additional 15-20 minutes if you prefer a colder salad.
Cook’s Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: The chickpeas can be marinated a day in advance to save time. Just keep them refrigerated until you are ready to use them.
- Storage: This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the best texture, keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve.
Variations
Vegetarian Version
- Omit the Salami: For a vegetarian version, simply leave out the Calabrese salami or pepperoni. You can add extra cheese or nuts for additional protein.
Vegan Version
- Vegan Cheese: Substitute the Asiago cheese with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Omit the Salami: Leave out the Calabrese salami or pepperoni. You can add extra chickpeas or tofu for added protein.
Gluten-Free Version
- Check Ingredients: Ensure that all the ingredients, especially the salami and cheese, are gluten-free. Most of the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always good to check the labels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different type of lettuce?
- Yes, you can use any type of lettuce you prefer. Mixed greens, spinach, or arugula can also be great alternatives.
- What can I use instead of chickpeas?
- If you don’t have chickpeas, you can substitute with white beans, kidney beans, or black beans.
- Can I use fresh artichoke hearts instead of marinated ones?
- Yes, you can use fresh artichoke hearts. Just make sure to cook them beforehand and add some extra seasoning to the salad.
- How can I make the salad spicier?
- To add a bit of spice, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or use a spicy variety of salami.
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated and add the dressing just before serving to maintain the crispness of the lettuce.
Scala Chopped Salad with Marinated Chickpeas is a refreshing and hearty dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of fresh vegetables, savory salami, and tangy marinated chickpeas makes it a satisfying and nutritious choice. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a picnic, or a potluck, this salad is sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, healthy meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Happy cooking!
