Pear, Cheese, and Bresaola Delight
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Prep Time15 Mins
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Cook Time5 Mins
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Total Time20 Mins
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DifficultyEasy
This rustic salad features tender cured beef, rich blue cheese, and crisp chicory, perfectly balanced with sweet pears. All tossed together and drizzled with a tangy red wine vinaigrette for a delightful flavor combination.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Toast the Walnuts
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/gas 6).
- Prepare the Walnuts: Place 100g walnut halves on a baking tray in a single layer.
- Toast: Toast in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until they are dark golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Cool: Once toasted, remove from the oven and let the walnuts cool completely.
2. Make the Dressing
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, add 2 tablespoons red wine (or port), 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, and 1 tablespoon golden caster sugar.
- Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Allow it to boil for about 3 minutes until it becomes slightly syrupy. (Note: It will thicken more as it cools.)
- Set Aside: Remove from heat and let the dressing cool while you prepare the salad.
3. Prepare the Pears
- Slice the Pears: When ready to serve, take 2 crisp pears (blushing pink if possible) and use a sharp knife, mandolin, or potato peeler to shave thin slices. Aim for even, delicate slices for the best presentation.
4. Assemble the Salad
- Combine Ingredients: In a large serving platter, mingle together the sliced pears, leaves from 2 heads of red chicory or radicchio, 100g bresaola (thinly sliced cured beef), 140g dolcelatte (or your favorite local soft blue cheese, sliced), and the cooled walnuts.
5. Dress the Salad
- Season the Dressing: Before drizzling, taste the cooled dressing and season with salt and pepper if desired.
- Drizzle: Pour the dressing over the assembled salad, then drizzle with 1 tablespoon of virgin olive oil (or rapeseed oil) for added richness.
6. Serve
- Enjoy Immediately: Serve the salad straight away for the best flavor and texture.
Tip for Preparing Shaved Pears
- Prevent Browning: If you need to prepare the pears ahead of time, submerge the shaved slices in a bowl of water with a squeeze of lemon juice. This will keep them from turning brown. Just drain and pat dry before adding to the salad.
Enjoy your deliciously Pear, Cheese, and Bresaola Delight!
