Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 pear, sliced
- 4 slices prosciutto, torn into pieces
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed: None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced pear, torn prosciutto, chopped walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately.
10 minutes
Temperature: Room temperature
Serving size: 4
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 237
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Mixed greens: Arugula, spinach, or kale
- Pear: Apple or fig
- Prosciutto: Cooked bacon or ham
- Walnuts: Pecans or almonds
- Blue cheese: Feta or goat cheese
- Balsamic vinegar: Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
Variations:
- Add sliced red onion or dried cranberries for extra flavor.
- Use grilled chicken instead of prosciutto for a heartier salad.
- Swap out the blue cheese for shaved Parmesan or Asiago cheese.
Tips and tricks:
- To prevent the pear slices from turning brown, toss them in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to bring out their flavor.
- For a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing mixture.
Storage instructions:
- This salad is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- This salad is not meant to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Arrange the pear slices on top of the salad for a beautiful presentation.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle additional chopped walnuts or blue cheese on top of the salad for added texture and flavor.
Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve this salad alongside a crusty baguette or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dressing is too tart, add a teaspoon of honey to balance out the flavors.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash all produce thoroughly before using in the recipe.
Food history:
- Pearà is a traditional Italian sauce made with bread crumbs, broth, and Parmesan cheese. This salad is a modern twist on the classic dish.
Flavor profiles:
- This salad is a combination of sweet and salty flavors, with the sweetness of the pear and the saltiness of the prosciutto and blue cheese.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner.
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Region: Italian