Imagine a salad that's not just a side dish, but a culinary masterpiece that transforms ordinary greens into an extraordinary dining experience. Our Watercress and Rocket Salad with Prosciutto and Mango is a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched landscapes of Italy, where fresh ingredients and bold combinations reign supreme. This isn't just a salad; it's a vibrant, elegant dish that promises to elevate your meal from mundane to magnificent in just 20 minutes!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups watercress, trimmed
- 2 cups rocket (arugula)
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 4 ounces prosciutto, sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the watercress and rocket leaves thoroughly under cold running water, then gently pat dry using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- Peel the ripe mango and carefully dice it into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/2 inch in size. Set aside in a small bowl.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil to create a simple vinaigrette. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Gently tear or slice the prosciutto into thin, delicate strips, ensuring they are not too thick or chunky.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the watercress and rocket leaves, creating a mixed green base for the salad.
- Add the diced mango pieces over the greens, distributing them evenly across the salad.
- Drape the prosciutto strips artfully over the top of the salad, allowing them to rest lightly on the greens and mango.
- Just before serving, drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the salad, ensuring an even distribution.
- Gently toss the salad to coat the ingredients with the dressing, being careful not to bruise the delicate leaves.
- Serve immediately at room temperature to preserve the fresh flavors and crisp texture of the ingredients.
Tips
- Choose peak-ripeness ingredients: Select a mango that's fragrant and slightly soft to the touch, and use the freshest prosciutto you can find.
- Pat your greens completely dry to ensure the dressing clings perfectly and prevents a watery salad.
- For the most luxurious texture, slice prosciutto when it's slightly chilled - this makes creating those delicate, elegant strips much easier.
- Make your balsamic vinaigrette just before serving to preserve its vibrant flavor and prevent the greens from wilting.
- Serve immediately after dressing to maintain the crisp texture of the watercress and rocket, and to enjoy the salad at its peak freshness.Pro Tip: For an extra gourmet touch, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a few shavings of aged Parmesan to complement the existing flavors!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 25mg
