Cantaloupe and Greens with Balsamic Dressing
This refreshing and vibrant salad combines the sweet flavors of ripe cantaloupe with crisp greens and a savory balsamic dressing. A delightful combination of textures and tastes, this dish can be served as a light lunch, side dish, or even as a starter for dinner. The addition of prosciutto or any other meat transforms this salad into a more substantial meal. Additionally, the warm dressing can be used over spinach or other leafy greens, and it also makes an excellent marinade for shellfish or poultry. Hereβs how to make this easy yet impressive salad.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lettuce leaves | 6 |
| Red onion | 1/4 cup (diced) |
| Pine nuts | 1/4 cup |
| Cantaloupe (scooped into balls) | 2 cups |
| Fresh coarse ground black pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 1/2 cup |
| Onion (diced) | 1/4 cup |
| Red wine vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190.2 |
| Total Fat | 16.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 17.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10.3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 8.5 g |
| Protein | 1.4 g |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
-
Cook the Onion
In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of olive oil over low heat. Add the diced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until the onions become transparent and lightly golden. -
Increase Heat and Add Vinegar
Once the onions are cooked, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and set aside. Increase the heat to medium-high. Pour in 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar along with the 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar. Bring this mixture to a boil. -
Add Sugar
Carefully add the 2 tablespoons of brown sugar to the boiling vinegar mixture (it may splatter a bit). Let it continue to boil for another minute, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. -
Add Onions to Dressing
Once the sugar has dissolved, add half of the cooked onions back into the pan. Save the remaining onions for another use. Let the dressing cool slightly before transferring it to a jar or container. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
-
Prepare the Greens and Fruit
In a large salad bowl, toss together the lettuce leaves, diced red onion, and cantaloupe balls or cubes. Make sure the cantaloupe is evenly distributed throughout the greens. -
Add the Pine Nuts
Sprinkle the pine nuts over the salad for an added crunch and nutty flavor. -
Dress the Salad
Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the salad, a little at a time, tossing as you go to ensure the salad is evenly coated. -
Finish with Pepper
Finally, add a generous amount of fresh coarse ground black pepper to taste. Toss the salad again and serve immediately.
Tips for Success:
- Add protein: For a heartier salad, add diced prosciutto, grilled chicken, or shrimp for extra protein.
- Warm dressing: This balsamic dressing is also great served warm over spinach or other leafy greens. It can also double as a marinade for shellfish or poultry.
- Storage: If you have leftover dressing, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also use it as a marinade or drizzle it over roasted vegetables for an added flavor boost.
- Make-ahead option: If you prefer to make the salad ahead of time, prepare the dressing and store it in the fridge. You can also prepare the greens and fruit, but wait to dress the salad until you’re ready to serve to keep the lettuce crisp.
Recipe Notes:
- This salad is a fantastic way to highlight the natural sweetness of cantaloupe, making it an excellent choice for warm-weather meals.
- The balsamic dressing balances the sweetness of the cantaloupe with its rich tang, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. The pine nuts add a crunchy contrast, while the onions give the dressing a savory depth.
Servings and Yield:
- Servings: 8
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
This Cantaloupe and Greens Salad with Balsamic Dressing is both light and flavorful, with a unique twist that will delight your taste buds. Whether you serve it as a side dish or as the star of your meal, itβs sure to impress.
