Looking for a quick and delightful dish that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine? Dive into the vibrant world of our Peas Prosciutto Parmesan Salad! With just 10 minutes of prep time, this fresh and flavorful salad combines sweet peas, savory prosciutto, and rich Parmesan cheese, creating a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. Perfect as a light appetizer or a stunning side dish, this recipe will not only impress your guests but also leave them craving more. Get ready to elevate your dining experience with this simple yet sophisticated salad that’s bursting with flavor!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh peas
- 4 oz prosciutto, sliced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove fresh peas from their pods if using fresh peas. If using frozen peas, thaw them completely and pat dry with paper towels.
- Slice the prosciutto into thin, delicate strips or small bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the fresh peas, prosciutto strips, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil and fresh lemon juice to create a light vinaigrette dressing.
- Pour the olive oil and lemon juice mixture over the pea, prosciutto, and Parmesan mixture.
- Gently toss all ingredients together to ensure even coating and distribution of the dressing.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, being careful not to over-salt due to the naturally salty prosciutto.
- Let the salad sit for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a light appetizer or side dish.
Tips
- Fresh vs. Frozen Peas: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh peas if they're in season. However, frozen peas work perfectly well—just ensure they're thawed and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Prosciutto Preparation: Use a sharp knife to slice the prosciutto into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. This will help the flavors meld beautifully with the other ingredients.
- Vinaigrette Balance: When whisking the olive oil and lemon juice, taste the vinaigrette before adding it to the salad. Adjust the acidity by adding more lemon juice if you prefer a tangier flavor.
- Seasoning Wisely: Since prosciutto is naturally salty, add salt gradually and taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning your salad.
- Flavor Infusion: Allow the salad to sit for 2-3 minutes after tossing to let the flavors meld together. This step enhances the overall taste and makes each bite more delicious.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this salad chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a larger Italian-inspired meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
