Warm Brussels sprouts salad

Warm Salad with Brussels Sprouts and Prosciutto: A Gourmet Delight in 3 Steps

Looking for a warm salad recipe that combines refined flavors and contrasting textures? The warm salad with Brussels sprouts and prosciutto is the perfect choice! This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also adds a touch of elegance to your table. Moreover, it is ideal for impressing guests or for a romantic dinner. I will guide you step by step on how to achieve a perfect result, sharing some useful tips and stories about the ingredients of this recipe.

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 400 g Brussels sprouts
- 200 g prosciutto crudo
- 1 red apple (preferably a crisp variety like Gala or Fuji)
- 50 g grated Parmesan
- 3-4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by preheating the oven to 190°C. This will help caramelize the prosciutto and cook the Brussels sprouts evenly.

Wash the Brussels sprouts well, removing the outer leaves if they are damaged. Cut each sprout in half so they cook evenly.

The slices of prosciutto, an essential ingredient, will add a salty flavor, while the apple will bring a sweet note, creating a delicious contrast.

2. Baking the prosciutto:
Place the slices of prosciutto on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover them with another sheet of parchment paper if you want to protect them from excessive drying. Put the tray in the oven and let them bake for 10 minutes until they become crispy and golden.

Helpful tip: Use high-quality prosciutto for a more intense flavor. If you don't have prosciutto, you can also try a bacon variant, but the baking time may vary.

3. Adding the Brussels sprouts:
After 10 minutes, remove the tray from the oven and place the halved Brussels sprouts in a single layer on top of the prosciutto. Put the tray back in the oven and let it bake for another 15 minutes. The sprouts should become slightly caramelized and crispy on the outside.

4. Adding the apples:
In the last 10 minutes of baking, add the apple slices on top of the sprouts. This will bring a fresh note and perfectly complement the salty flavors of the prosciutto and the bitterness of the sprouts.

5. Preparing the dressing:
In a large bowl, add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to achieve a homogeneous dressing. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking.

6. Finalizing the salad:
Once all the ingredients are baked, carefully transfer the contents of the tray to the bowl with the dressing. Gently mix to combine the flavors, then add the grated Parmesan on top.

Personal tip: If you like a more intense flavor, you can also add some toasted nuts or pumpkin seeds for extra texture and nutrients.

7. Serving:
Serve the salad warm, alongside a glass of semi-dry rosé wine. The combination of flavors and temperatures will make this salad an unforgettable delicacy.

Nutritional benefits:
Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and fiber, positively impacting digestive health and the immune system. Prosciutto brings valuable proteins, while the apple contributes antioxidants. This salad is not only tasty but also nourishing.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, you can add other ingredients depending on the season. For example, slices of orange or grapefruit can add a citrusy and fresh note. You can also replace the Parmesan with feta or goat cheese for a vegetarian option.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
It is not recommended as the texture will be different, but if it is the only option, make sure to thaw them completely and drain well before baking.

- Can this salad be prepared in advance?
You can prepare the ingredients in advance, but it is recommended to mix them with the dressing and bake just before serving to maintain the crispy texture.

I hope this recipe inspires you to try something new and delicious in your kitchen. Don't hesitate to share this warm salad with Brussels sprouts and prosciutto with your loved ones, a unique combination of flavors and textures that will surely delight the taste buds. Enjoy your meal!