Introduction:
Elevate your salad game with this sophisticated Bayonne Ham Arugula Salad. Featuring thinly sliced Bayonne ham, peppery arugula, and a zesty vinaigrette, this salad is both elegant and easy to prepare. Ideal for a light lunch, a starter for a dinner party, or a fresh and flavorful side, it combines savory, tangy, and crisp elements for a truly delightful experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Elegant and Simple: Combines high-quality ingredients for a refined yet easy salad.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in about 15 minutes with minimal effort.
- Flavorful: The Bayonne ham adds a savory richness, while the arugula provides a fresh, peppery kick.
- Versatile: Perfect as a standalone meal or as a sophisticated side dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 oz Bayonne ham, thinly sliced
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
- Arrange the arugula on a large serving platter or in a salad bowl.
- Scatter the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and shaved Parmesan cheese over the arugula.
- Add the Ham:
- Arrange the slices of Bayonne ham on top of the salad, either whole or cut into strips for easier serving.
- Toast the Pine Nuts:
- In a small, dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts for 2-3 minutes, or until golden and fragrant. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad.
- Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts on top.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately for the best freshness. Enjoy as a light lunch, appetizer, or side dish.
Tips for Success:
- Ham: Bayonne ham can be substituted with prosciutto or another high-quality cured ham if needed.
- Arugula: For a milder flavor, you can mix arugula with baby spinach or mixed greens.
- Dressing: Adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the dressing to your taste by varying the amount of honey or balsamic vinegar.
Recipe Variations:
- Add Fruit: Incorporate fresh figs, apple slices, or pears for a touch of sweetness.
- Add Nuts: Substitute pine nuts with walnuts, almonds, or pecans for different textures.
- Cheese: Try goat cheese or blue cheese instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Main Course: Pair with a warm baguette or crusty bread.
- For a Dinner Party: Serve as a starter or alongside a main dish like grilled steak or roasted chicken.
- For a Picnic: Pack in a portable container for a fresh and elegant outdoor meal.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The arugula may become wilted if left too long.
- Dressing: Store the dressing separately and add just before serving to maintain the salad’s crispness.
Special Equipment:
- Skillet: For toasting the pine nuts.
- Mixing Bowl: For preparing the dressing.
FAQ:
- Can I use a different type of ham?
Yes, you can use prosciutto, serrano ham, or any other cured ham you prefer. - Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Prepare the ingredients and assemble the salad just before serving to keep the arugula fresh and crisp. - Can I substitute other nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or almonds.
Preparation Time:
- 10 minutes for preparing and assembling the salad.
Total Time:
- 15 minutes (including preparation and toasting pine nuts).
Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Bayonne Ham Arugula Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 oz Bayonne ham, thinly sliced
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
- Arrange the arugula on a large serving platter or in a salad bowl.
- Scatter the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and shaved Parmesan cheese over the arugula.
- Add the Ham:
- Arrange the slices of Bayonne ham on top of the salad, either whole or cut into strips for easier serving.
- Toast the Pine Nuts:
- In a small, dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts for 2-3 minutes, or until golden and fragrant. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad.
- Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts on top.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately for the best freshness. Enjoy as a light lunch, appetizer, or side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 10g
Closing Notes:
Have you tried this Bayonne Ham Arugula Salad? Share your thoughts and any variations you’ve tried in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your delicious creations and check back for more easy and elegant recipes.