Sunday, June 20, 2010

Insalata Rustica


Italian Salads are never boring and Insalata Rustica is a perfect case in point. This is a simple salad to make and the combination of ingredients is remarkable.

It’s also a beautiful salad to look at and I stared at it for an extended period of time before I decided that I just needed to dive in.

Did I also tell you that this salad is delicious? I LOVE the flavor of the crispy pancetta and always end up doubling this ingredient when I make it.

1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
4 ounces 1/8-inch-thick slices pancetta
Spicy crushed pecans
1/2 cup dried tart cherries
4 cups mixed greens
2 pears, cored and thinly sliced
Aged balsamic vinegar (for drizzling)

Fry pancetta and drain. Crumble and set aside. On top of the greens, add cherries, pears, and pecans. Top with crispy pancetta and dressing of aged balsamic.

P.S. I love easy!

Bon Appetit!