Description
The Famous La Scala Chopped Salad is a vibrant and tasty medley of fresh vegetables, smoked turkey bacon, and plant-based cheese, all tossed in a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing. This salad offers a perfect balance of crisp textures and rich flavors and is ideal as a healthy main or refreshing side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 3 cups romaine lettuce, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Protein & Cheese
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, cubed
Dressing
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon natural mustard
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash all vegetables thoroughly. Finely chop the romaine lettuce, quarter the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell peppers, and finely chop the red onion into uniform small pieces to ensure even flavor distribution and ease of eating.
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy but not burnt. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess fat and cool. Once cooled, chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar (natural), olive oil, natural mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a tangy and balanced dressing.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped vegetables, crispy smoked turkey bacon pieces, and cubed plant-based cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the salad for a pop of color and fresh herbal notes. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispness and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Cut all ingredients into similar small pieces for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Use the freshest vegetables to enhance flavor and texture.
- Ensure turkey bacon is crisp but not burnt for the best texture.
- Taste and adjust the dressing acidity or sweetness as preferred.
- Add a small amount of natural gelling agent if you prefer a thicker dressing texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: chopped salad, smoked turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, apple cider vinegar dressing, fresh vegetables, gluten free, healthy salad
