Peach and Prosciutto Salad: A Perfect Summer Delight

Peach and prosciutto salad is a sophisticated and delicious combination that marries the sweetness of ripe peaches with the savory richness of prosciutto. This salad is not only visually stunning but also offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch, a refreshing appetizer, or a fancy side dish for dinner.

What Makes Peach and Prosciutto Salad Great

• Flavor Harmony: The sweet, juicy peaches complement the salty, savory prosciutto, creating a delightful contrast.
• Fresh and Light: Perfect for warm weather, this salad is light yet satisfying, packed with fresh ingredients.
• Quick to Prepare: With minimal cooking and easy assembly, you can have this salad ready in just a few minutes.
• Versatile: Can be served as a standalone dish or paired with other meal components like grilled meats or crusty bread.

Components of Peach and Prosciutto Salad

• Peaches: Ripe, juicy peaches add sweetness and a burst of flavor.
• Prosciutto: Thin slices of prosciutto provide a salty, savory contrast to the sweet peaches.
• Greens: Mixed greens or arugula serve as a fresh, crisp base.
• Cheese: Optional crumbled feta or goat cheese adds creaminess and tang.
• Nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts add a delightful crunch.
• Dressing: A light vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard ties the salad together.

How to Make Peach and Prosciutto Salad

1. Prepare the Peaches:
   • Wash, pit, and slice the peaches into wedges or thin slices. If peaches are not in season, you can use nectarines as a substitute.
2. Prepare the Greens:
   • Wash and dry your choice of greens or arugula. Place them in a large salad bowl.
3. Assemble the Salad:
   • Arrange the peach slices on top of the greens. Drape the prosciutto slices over the peaches.
   • If using cheese, sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the salad.
4. Add Nuts:
   • Scatter toasted almonds or walnuts on top for added crunch.
5. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Dress the Salad:
   • Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve immediately for the freshest taste and best texture. This salad can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.

Tips for a Perfect Peach and Prosciutto Salad

• Ripeness of Peaches: Use ripe peaches for the best flavor and juiciness. If peaches are not in season, choose firm but ripe nectarines or plums.
• Prosciutto Quality: Opt for high-quality prosciutto for the best flavor. Thin slices are ideal for easy eating.
• Toasting Nuts: Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch. Watch them closely to avoid burning.

Peach and Prosciutto Salad Recipe

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Servings 4 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the salad:

• 4 cups mixed greens such as arugula, spinach, and baby kale
• 2 ripe peaches pitted and sliced
• 4 ounces prosciutto sliced thin
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
• 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
• 1/4 red onion thinly sliced

For the dressing:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

 

Prepare the ingredients:

• Wash and dry the mixed greens.
• Pit and slice the peaches.
• Slice the prosciutto into strips if not pre-sliced.
• Crumble the goat cheese or feta cheese.
• Toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).

Make the dressing:

• In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Assemble the salad:

• In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, peach slices, prosciutto, crumbled cheese, and red onion.
• Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients.

Add the nuts:

• Sprinkle the toasted pecans or walnuts over the top of the salad.

Serve:

• Serve immediately as a fresh and elegant starter or main course.

Notes

This Peach and Prosciutto Salad is a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a light lunch or a fancy appetizer. Enjoy the contrast of juicy peaches with salty prosciutto and creamy cheese, all topped with a tangy balsamic dressing!

Why You’ll Love Peach and Prosciutto Salad

Peach and prosciutto salad is cherished for its elegant flavor combination and refreshing qualities. The interplay between sweet peaches, salty prosciutto, and creamy cheese, combined with the crunch of nuts and the tangy vinaigrette, makes this salad a memorable and delightful dish. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, special occasions, or a light, sophisticated meal.

Ready to Enjoy?

Next time you’re in the mood for a fresh and flavorful salad, try making a peach and prosciutto salad. With its harmonious blend of sweet and savory, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and elegant presentation of this delightful summer salad!