Prosciutto Fig Salad Recipe – Easy Dinner Salad

Elevate your dinner table with this Easy Prosciutto & Fig Salad Recipe, a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. This salad brings together the delicate saltiness of prosciutto, the natural sweetness of figs, and the crispness of fresh greens for a meal that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing a light dinner, entertaining guests, or simply craving a fresh, flavorful salad, this prosciutto fig salad will satisfy every palate. In this guide, we’ll explore everything from ingredients to tips for perfect presentation, ensuring your salad turns out perfectly every time.

Ingredients:

To create the perfect prosciutto fig salad, gather the following fresh and high-quality ingredients:

• 6-8 fresh ripe figs, sliced in half

• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, and romaine work beautifully)

• 100g thinly sliced prosciutto

• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta

• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans

• 2 tablespoons honey or balsamic glaze

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

• Optional: fresh herbs such as basil or thyme for garnish

Required Kitchen Tools:

Having the right tools makes assembling this salad easier and more enjoyable:

• Sharp knife for slicing figs and prosciutto

• Cutting board

• Salad bowl or large platter

• Small bowl for mixing dressing

• Whisk or fork for combining oil, vinegar, and honey

• Tongs or salad servers

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions:

1. Prepare the Figs: Begin by washing the figs gently under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean towel and slice them in halves or quarters depending on their size. Fresh figs add a natural sweetness that balances the salty prosciutto.

2. Assemble the Greens: Place your chosen mixed greens into a large salad bowl or arrange them neatly on a serving platter. Ensure they are fresh and crisp for the best texture.

3. Add the Prosciutto: Tear or slice the prosciutto into bite-sized pieces and scatter them evenly over the greens. The delicate, salty flavor of prosciutto complements the sweetness of the figs perfectly.

4. Incorporate Cheese and Nuts: Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese or feta over the salad for creamy texture. Add toasted walnuts or pecans to introduce a satisfying crunch that elevates the salad’s complexity.

5. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Adjust the amount of honey depending on the sweetness of your figs. Season lightly with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

6. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the salad. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are lightly coated without bruising the delicate figs or greens.

7. Garnish and Serve: Add a finishing touch with fresh herbs like basil or thyme if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Tips for Making the Perfect Prosciutto Fig Salad:

• Choose Ripe Figs: Ripe figs are essential for the perfect balance of sweetness. They should be slightly soft but not mushy.

• Use High-Quality Prosciutto: The flavor of the prosciutto is central to this salad. Choose thinly sliced, high-quality prosciutto for optimal taste.

• Balance Flavors: Taste the salad before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or drizzle more honey if needed to achieve a perfect harmony of sweet and savory.

• Add Seasonal Variations: Depending on the season, consider adding pears, apples, or dried cranberries to enhance the salad’s depth.

• Serve Fresh: This salad is best served immediately. Figs can release juice if left too long, which may make the greens soggy.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

• Calories: 280–350 per serving

• Protein: 12g

• Fat: 18g

• Carbohydrates: 22g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugars: 15g

Why This Salad Works as a Dinner Option:

Prosciutto fig salad is not just a starter or side dish; it can serve as a satisfying dinner. The combination of protein from prosciutto and cheese, healthy fats from nuts and olive oil, and complex carbohydrates from figs ensures a balanced meal. This salad is light yet filling, making it ideal for a refreshing dinner option during warm evenings or a sophisticated meal for entertaining guests.

Variations and Serving Suggestions:

• Add Grains: Incorporate quinoa, farro, or couscous for a heartier meal.

• Include Fruits: Substitute figs with seasonal fruits like peaches, plums, or berries for a different flavor profile.

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon to make this salad a complete main course.

• Dressing Alternatives: Experiment with lemon vinaigrette, fig balsamic dressing, or a light mustard dressing for added depth.

Pairing Drinks:
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the sweet and salty notes of the salad beautifully. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a hint of lemon or a lightly sweetened iced tea pairs perfectly with the fresh flavors.

Occasions for Serving Prosciutto Fig Salad:

This salad is versatile enough for multiple occasions:

• Dinner Parties: Its vibrant presentation makes it a show-stopping starter.

• Weeknight Dinner: Quick to prepare yet flavorful enough to feel special.

• Holiday Meals: Perfect addition to festive meals, offering a balance to rich dishes.

• Lunch Gatherings: Works well as a light, elegant lunch option.

Storing Leftovers:

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting. Figs are delicate, so try to consume leftovers within 24 hours for optimal taste and texture.

FAQ Section for Prosciutto Fig Salad

Q1: What is a prosciutto fig salad?
A prosciutto fig salad is a fresh and flavorful salad that combines the saltiness of prosciutto, the sweetness of figs, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts over mixed greens. It’s perfect as a light dinner or elegant starter.

Q2: Can I make prosciutto fig salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving. Figs and greens can become soggy if dressed too early.

Q3: What type of cheese works best in prosciutto fig salad?
Goat cheese or feta are ideal choices because their creamy texture and tangy flavor complement the sweet figs and salty prosciutto.

Q4: Can I substitute figs in this salad?
Absolutely. Seasonal fruits like pears, apples, or even dried cranberries can be used if fresh figs aren’t available, though fresh figs provide the best flavor balance.

Q5: Is prosciutto fig salad suitable for a full dinner?
Yes, by adding protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon, or even grains like quinoa or farro, this salad can become a satisfying and complete dinner option.

Q6: How should I store leftover prosciutto fig salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness and texture.

Final Thoughts:

Creating an Easy Prosciutto & Fig Salad is about balancing flavors and textures while using high-quality ingredients. The sweet figs, salty prosciutto, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts come together to create a sophisticated yet approachable salad suitable for dinner or entertaining. This prosciutto fig salad proves that salads can be both elegant and satisfying, turning a simple mix of ingredients into a memorable meal. By following the steps and tips provided, anyone can craft a salad that looks beautiful on the plate and tastes even better.