Ricotta Salata and Fig Salad Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 6 fresh figs, sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled ricotta salata cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Special equipment needed: None

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse and dry the mixed greens.
2. Slice the fresh figs and set aside.
3. Crumble the ricotta salata cheese and set aside.
4. Chop the walnuts and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced figs, crumbled ricotta salata cheese, and chopped walnuts.
6. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately.

10 minutes
Temperature: Room temperature
Serving size: 4

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 6g
- Fiber: 3g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Mixed greens can be substituted with arugula or spinach.
- Fresh figs can be substituted with dried figs.
- Ricotta salata cheese can be substituted with feta cheese.
- Walnuts can be substituted with pecans or almonds.
- Balsamic vinaigrette can be substituted with any preferred salad dressing.

Variations:
- Add sliced prosciutto or cooked chicken for a heartier salad.
- Substitute the mixed greens with grilled romaine lettuce for a smoky flavor.
- Add sliced red onions or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.

Tips and tricks:
- Use fresh, ripe figs for the best flavor.
- Toast the walnuts for added crunch.
- Make the salad ahead of time and add the dressing just before serving.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions: Not applicable

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with additional crumbled cheese and chopped walnuts.

Garnishes:
- Crumbled cheese
- Chopped walnuts
- Fresh herbs such as basil or mint

Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of white wine or sparkling water.

Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables
- Garlic bread
- Roasted potatoes

Troubleshooting advice: None

Food safety advice:
- Wash all produce thoroughly before use.
- Store any leftover salad in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.

Food history:
- Figs have been cultivated for thousands of years and were highly prized in ancient Rome and Greece.
- Ricotta salata cheese is a type of Italian cheese made from sheep's milk.

Flavor profiles:
- The salad is sweet and savory with a nutty crunch from the walnuts.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a light lunch or as a side dish with grilled meats or seafood.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

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Region: Italian

Taste: Creamy, Sweet, Tangy, Nutty, Savory