Introduction
This delightful salad combines fresh greens, savory prosciutto, and a tangy dressing for a refreshing dish that is perfect for any occasion. The crispy prosciutto chips add a unique texture, while the medley of vegetables and cheese creates a beautiful and appetizing presentation.
Ingredients
For the Dressing:
– 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 small head radicchio, chopped
– 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup sliced Kalamata olives
– 4 ounces prosciutto
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Directions
1. Prepare the Prosciutto Chips:
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– Arrange the prosciutto slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
– Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until crispy.
– Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
– Once cooled, break the prosciutto into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
– In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
– Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Salad:
– In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce and radicchio.
– Add the sliced pepperoncini, shredded mozzarella cheese, and sliced Kalamata olives.
– Add the cooled prosciutto pieces to the salad.
– Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad.
– Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
– Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil leaves over the top.
– Serve immediately.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Prosciutto Chips
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– Arrange the prosciutto slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
– Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until crispy.
– Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
– Once cooled, break the prosciutto into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the Dressing
– In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
– Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Assemble the Salad
– In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce and radicchio.
– Add the sliced pepperoncini, shredded mozzarella cheese, and sliced Kalamata olives.
– Add the cooled prosciutto pieces to the salad.
– Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad.
– Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
– Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil leaves over the top.
– Serve immediately.
Notes
Storage
– It is best to consume the salad shortly after assembling to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
Customization
– Feel free to add other toppings according to your preference, such as cherry tomatoes or pine nuts.
Alternatives
– If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace prosciutto with roasted chickpeas or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture.
Cook techniques
Preparing Prosciutto Chips
To make prosciutto chips, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the prosciutto slices in a single layer on the sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until crispy. Let them cool completely before breaking into bite-sized pieces.
Making the Dressing
Whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl until combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Assembling the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce and radicchio. Add sliced pepperoncini, shredded mozzarella cheese, sliced Kalamata olives, and the cooled prosciutto pieces. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh basil leaves on top.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Yes, you can substitute romaine and radicchio with other types of lettuce or mixed greens according to your preference.
How do I store leftover salad?
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it is best to keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent wilting.
Can I replace prosciutto with another meat?
Yes, you can use other cured meats like salami or pancetta if you prefer.
What other cheeses can I use?
Feta or parmesan cheese can be good alternatives to mozzarella in this salad.
How can I make the dressing more flavorful?
You can enhance the dressing by adding minced garlic, fresh herbs, or a pinch of sugar for additional flavor.
Conclusion
This salad beautifully combines fresh ingredients with the savory crunch of prosciutto chips, creating a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The balance of flavors, from the tangy dressing to the rich medley of cheeses and olives, makes it a satisfying choice that can stand alone or complement a variety of meals.
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