Valtellina Salad

Valtellina Salad - An Italian Delicacy with Dried Meat and Cheese

Total preparation time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

I present to you a salad recipe that combines unique flavors and textures, bringing a touch of elegance and taste to the table. Valtellina Salad is a simple yet refined dish, perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself on a quiet evening. This salad has its origins in the culinary traditions of mountainous regions, where quality ingredients are essential. Allow me to guide you step by step in creating this delicious dish that will bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Necessary Ingredients:
- 16 slices of Leerdammer Original (or another type of semi-hard cheese, if you prefer)
- 100 g of thinly sliced dried beef
- 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- A few drops of lemon juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
- 100 g of green salad (can be a mix of salad or arugula)
- A few croutons
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step by Step for a Perfect Salad:

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Choose a quality dried beef, as it will give the salad an intense and savory flavor. You can opt for aged beef, which will add an extra layer of flavor.

2. Seasoning the Meat Slices:
In a small bowl, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a few drops of lemon juice, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. Mix well. Take the slices of dried beef and lightly coat them with this mixture. This will add a note of freshness and highlight the meat's flavor.

3. Preparing the Dressing:
In another bowl, combine the remaining olive oil (3 tablespoons), a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a few drops of lemon juice. This dressing will be the secret that ties all the ingredients together harmoniously.

4. Assembling the Salad:
On a platter or in 4 individual plates, lay down a bed of fresh green salad. Evenly distribute the dressing over the salad, gently mixing to incorporate it.

5. Adding the Topping Ingredients:
Arrange the seasoned slices of beef on top of the salad, then carefully place the slices of Leerdammer Original. This will add a creamy and savory note, perfect for this dish.

6. Finishing and Serving:
Sprinkle a few croutons on top for added crunch. These will not only add texture but will also make the salad even more appetizing. You can opt for homemade croutons, lightly toasted with a splash of olive oil and garlic for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions:
Valtellina Salad can be enjoyed as a main course during lunch or as an appetizer at an elegant dinner. You can accompany it with a glass of dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade to balance the intense flavors of the meat and cheese.

Tips and Variations:
If you want to add a touch of originality, you can include a few slices of avocado or some toasted nuts, which will provide a contrast of textures and flavors. Also, for a vegetarian version, you can replace the beef with slices of marinated tofu or soy ham.

Nutritional Benefits:
This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. The green salad brings fiber and vitamins, while the dried beef is an excellent source of protein. Leerdammer Original adds calcium and healthy fats, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Of course! Any semi-hard or aged cheese will work excellently. Be creative!

2. How can I keep the salad from wilting?
It is recommended to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the ingredients.

3. Can I replace the croutons?
Yes! You can use toasted seeds or vegetable chips for a healthier option.

With each step followed, you will see that Valtellina Salad becomes not just a culinary dish but a cooking experience. Whether you prepare it for yourself or share it with loved ones, each bite will be an explosion of flavors that will bring a smile to everyone’s faces. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy this delicacy!