Pea and Prosciutto Salad Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 4 slices of prosciutto, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special Equipment Needed:
- None

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender. If using frozen peas, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave for a few minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the peas, chopped prosciutto, red onion, and mint leaves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad.
7. Serve chilled.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 2-3 minutes (if using fresh peas)
Temperature:
- Serve chilled
Serving size:
- 4 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 180
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 9g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of prosciutto, you can use bacon or ham.
- Instead of feta cheese, you can use goat cheese or blue cheese.
- Instead of red onion, you can use shallots or green onions.

Variations:
- Add cherry tomatoes or cucumber for extra crunch.
- Use different herbs such as parsley or basil.
- Add cooked quinoa or farro for a heartier salad.

Tips and Tricks:
- If using fresh peas, make sure to shock them in ice water after blanching to stop the cooking process and maintain their bright green color.
- Use a mandoline or sharp knife to thinly slice the red onion for a more delicate flavor.
- Make the salad ahead of time and let it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Storage Instructions:
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
- This salad is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.

Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with extra mint leaves or a sprinkle of black pepper.

Garnishes:
- Mint leaves
- Black pepper

Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the salad seems too dry, add a little more olive oil or lemon juice to the dressing.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to thoroughly wash the fresh peas before blanching them.

Food History:
- Peas have been cultivated for thousands of years and were a staple food in ancient civilizations such as Greece and Rome.

Flavor Profiles:
- This salad is fresh and light with a salty and savory flavor from the prosciutto and feta cheese.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this salad as a side dish or as a light lunch or dinner.

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Taste: Creamy, Savory, Salty, Tangy, Fresh