What is pear, mozzarella and parma ham salad?
– Mix of grilled slices of pear, buffalo mozzarella cheese, prosciutto ham, wild rocket leaves, all drizzled with herbal vinaigrette.
Recipe Intro
Here is a refreshing and utterly tasty salad that breaks away from the ordinary. Don’t let the idea of mixing fruit with a classic salad throw you off; trust me, warm grilled pears take it to a whole new level, paired with salty Parma ham, creamy mozzarella, and crunchy, peppery wild rocket! Drizzled with a sweet and tangy herbal vinaigrette, it’s a taste sensation you won’t forget!
Essential Ingredients & Substitutes
- pears – Choose a sweet variety for the best flavour
- parma ham – Also known as Prosciutto, purchase thinly sliced
- mozzarella cheese – We’re referring to the soft, creamy Italian buffalo mozzarella cheese, renowned for its light texture and delicate flavour profile
- wild rocket – Salad leaves with a peppery, refreshing taste. As a substitute, you can prepare with lamb’s lettuce. Other types of green leaves may lack the robust flavour needed to complement this salad.
- balsamic vinegar and olive oil – Balsamic is essential for its rich, sweet flavour; no other vinegar will do, as it may be too sour for this salad’s delicate balance. Use unfiltered extra virgin olive oil for the most authentic and exquisite flavour.
How to make Pear, mozzarella and parma ham salad?
Wash pears and slice them thinly. You can keep the skin on or peel it off, whatever you prefer.
For the best results, instead of grilling, you can quickly pan-fry (no oil) or use a toaster grill. Place baking paper at the bottom and over each pear slice, then press down gently. Toast them for a minute or two until done.
Now, prepare the dressing. Mix all the dressing ingredients in a small cup until well combined.
Slice the mozzarella cheese thinly, or break it apart for a more rustic appearance. Wash and drain the wild rocket leaves, then chop them in half for easier eating. Place into a bowl and add 1 to 2 teaspoons of the prepared dressing, mix well.
Assemble the dish: Arrange the grilled pear slices, mozzarella, and wild rocket on a serving plate. Add one slice of Parma ham to each individual portion. Finally, drizzle the remaining vinaigrette dressing over the salad.
How to serve Pear, Mozzarella and Parma ham salad?
This salad works as a starter, pairs well with the main course, or fills you up as a complete meal. For added texture, consider adding croutons for an extra touch of crunch and carbs.
Recipe Card
Pear, mozzarella and parma ham salad
Ingredients
- 1 pear
- 1 cup wild rocket
- 100 g buffalo mozzarella
- 2 slices parma ham ( prosciutto )
DRESSING
- 4-5 tbsp unfiltered olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp light honey - plain, wildflower, linden, acaccia
- 2 tsp parsley - finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- salt, pepper - to taste
Instructions
- Wash and slice the pears. You can choose to leave the skin on or peel it off according to your preference.Grill the pear slices for 1-2 minutes.
- In a cup, add all dressing ingredients and mix well.
- Slice mozzarella , wash wild rocket and chop in half if very large.In a bowl, add chopped wild rocket and mix with 1-2 teaspoons of the dressing until well combined.
- Arrange pear and buffalo mozzarella cheese slices, wild rocket, and a slice of Parma ham on a serving plate. Drizzle the vinaigrette dressing over the salad.