Duck breast salad with giant croutons

Duck Breast Salad with Giant Croutons

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Who doesn't love a dish that combines bold flavors with a crunchy texture? This duck breast salad with giant croutons is not only a feast for the eyes but also an explosion of tastes that will impress your family and friends. The duck, with its tender meat and crispy skin, perfectly complements the flavored croutons and fresh salad. Plus, it's a recipe that can be made quickly, making it ideal for a special dinner or a delicious lunch.

Ingredients needed:

*For the duck breast:*
- 1/2 duck breast, skin on
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of Chinese five-spice mix
- Olive oil, for frying
- A few sprigs of thyme
- 1 tablespoon of fresh mint, chopped
- 1/2 chili, finely chopped
- Juice from 1/4 lemon

*For the croutons:*
- 1/2 ciabatta (or similar bread)
- 1/2 tablespoon of fennel seeds
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary

*For the salad:*
- Seeds from 1/2 pomegranate
- 150 grams of mixed salad (lettuce, arugula, baby spinach)
- 1/2 tablespoon of fresh mint, chopped
- 1 carrot, cut into thin strips with a peeler
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
- Juice from 1/4 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the Duck Breast:
Start by seasoning the duck breast with salt, pepper, Chinese five-spice mix, olive oil, and thyme leaves. This marinade will add intense flavor and make the skin even crispier. Score the skin in several places to allow the fat to render during cooking.

2. Cooking the Duck Breast:
Place the duck breast skin-side down in a hot pan with a little olive oil. Cover it with a plate and press down with a heavy object, such as a mortar or a can, to ensure a perfect crust. Cook for 3 minutes over medium-high heat. Then, flip the duck breast and continue cooking for 10-15 minutes, turning frequently without pressing.

3. Preparing the Croutons:
Meanwhile, cut the ciabatta into 2 cm slices. Place them on a baking tray, sprinkle with salt, pepper, olive oil, fennel seeds, crushed garlic, and rosemary. Mix carefully to ensure each slice is well coated. Put the tray in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius and bake for 10-15 minutes until the croutons are golden and crispy.

4. Preparing the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the pomegranate seeds, mixed salad, chopped mint, and carrot strips. This mix will add a note of freshness and a contrast of textures.

5. Preparing the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix the 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing will highlight the salad's flavors without overwhelming them.

6. Assembling the Dish:
Remove the duck breast from the pan and place it on a plate. Mix the mint with the chopped chili, lemon juice, oil, salt, and pepper on a cutting board. Place the duck breast on top of the salad, add the dressing, and roll it in the mint and chili mixture. Slice it thinly and arrange it on the serving platter.

7. Serving:
Arrange the croutons around the duck breast and serve immediately, along with the fresh salad. This combination of flavors and textures will create an unforgettable culinary experience.

Practical Tips:
- The duck breast can be replaced with chicken or turkey breast, but cooking time will change.
- The croutons can be made from any type of bread, and adding spices like garlic or sweet paprika will enhance their flavor.
- If you want a sweet note, you can add slices of caramelized apple or pear to the salad.
- Make sure the duck breast is of good quality, preferably from a trusted supplier.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
This salad is rich in protein due to the duck breast, which also provides essential fatty acids. The salad and vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while the pomegranate seeds are an excellent source of antioxidants. A serving has about 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I prepare it in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the croutons and dressing a few hours ahead, but it's recommended to add the dressing to the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.

- What drinks can be paired with it?
A dry white wine, a Chardonnay, or a flavored sparkling water would perfectly complement this dish.

Personal Story:
When I first cooked this salad, I was pleasantly surprised by the combination of flavors and textures. It was an autumn evening, and the aroma of thyme and garlic filled the air. I decided to serve it with a white wine, and the reactions from my loved ones were fantastic. Since then, it has become a favorite dish in our home, bringing not only delicious tastes to the table but also unforgettable moments.

In conclusion, this duck breast salad with giant croutons is not just a meal; it’s an experience. I invite you to try it and share your own variations and stories. Cooking is, at its essence, about experimenting and enjoying every moment spent in the kitchen!