La Scala Salad (Kardashian Salad)

Ingredients

• 2 cups of romaine lettuce, finely chopped
• 1 cup of iceberg lettuce, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup of garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese, finely diced
• 1/4 cup of Italian salami, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup of turkey breast, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by washing and drying all the vegetables thoroughly. Chop the romaine and iceberg lettuces into thin strips and place them in a large salad bowl. Ensure the lettuce is crisp and dry to maintain the salad's crunchy texture.
2. Add the Proteins: Incorporate the drained and rinsed garbanzo beans, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, sliced salami, and turkey breast into the bowl with the lettuce. Toss to combine evenly. This step is crucial for ensuring that each bite delivers a balanced mix of flavors.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar and Dijon mustard. Gradually add in the extra virgin olive oil while continuously whisking to create a smooth emulsion. Stir in the minced garlic, and season with salt and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to taste, as the dressing should have a bold yet harmonious flavor.
4. Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Use salad tongs to gently toss the salad until all components are well-coated with the dressing. Ensure the chickpeas and proteins are evenly distributed throughout. This step helps in achieving a well-integrated flavor in every serving.
5. Chill and Serve: For best results, let the salad rest in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold as a main dish or as a refreshing starter. This brief chilling period intensifies the flavors and enhances the salad's refreshing characteristic.