Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful twist on a classic Italian salad! Our Fresh Fig Walnut Prosciutto Salad with Fig Balsamic Dressing is not just a dish; it's an experience that combines the sweetness of fresh figs, the crunch of toasted walnuts, and the savory richness of prosciutto, all drizzled with a homemade fig balsamic dressing that will leave you craving more. Perfect for a light lunch or an elegant dinner party, this salad is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Dive into the recipe that will elevate your salad game and impress your guests!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup fresh figs, quartered
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
- 4 ounces prosciutto, sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Rinse the mixed greens thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Spin them dry in a salad spinner or pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Next, prepare the fresh figs. Rinse them gently under cold water, then remove the stems. Cut each fig into quarters and set aside.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 3-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove from heat and let them cool.
- Now, it’s time to prepare the prosciutto. If it’s not already sliced, cut the prosciutto into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. You can also leave the slices whole for a more rustic presentation.
- For the fig balsamic dressing, combine the balsamic vinegar and olive oil in a small bowl or a jar with a lid. Whisk or shake well until the mixture is emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, quartered figs, and toasted walnuts. Toss gently to mix the ingredients without bruising the greens.
- Drizzle the fig balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Finally, add the sliced prosciutto on top of the salad. You can either mix it in or leave it on top for a beautiful presentation.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional walnuts or figs if desired. Enjoy your Fresh Fig Walnut Prosciutto Salad with Fig Balsamic Dressing!
Tips
- Ingredient Prep: Make sure to wash your mixed greens thoroughly. A salad spinner works wonders to remove excess water, ensuring your salad stays crisp and fresh.
- Fig Handling: When preparing fresh figs, handle them gently to avoid bruising. They are delicate and can easily be squished, so cut them just before serving for the best texture.
- Toasting Walnuts: Keep a close eye on your walnuts while toasting. They can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds, so stir them frequently and remove them from heat as soon as they are fragrant.
- Prosciutto Presentation: For an elegant touch, consider leaving the prosciutto slices whole or tearing them into larger pieces instead of cutting them into strips. This adds a rustic charm to your salad.
- Dressing Balance: Adjust the ratio of balsamic vinegar to olive oil based on your taste preferences. If you prefer a tangier dressing, add more vinegar; for a creamier texture, increase the olive oil.
- Serving Fresh: This salad is best served immediately after preparation to maintain the freshness of the greens and the texture of the figs. If you need to prepare it in advance, keep the dressing separate until just before serving.
- Garnishing: For an extra touch of elegance, consider garnishing your salad with additional sliced figs or a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese for added creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
