Insalata di Rinforzo Recipe – A Traditional Neapolitan Christmas Salad
Category: Salads
Serves: 6
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower | 800g |
| Pickled Bell Peppers | 100g |
| Green Olives (brine-cured) | 100g |
| Black Olives | 100g |
| Pickled Capers | 50g |
| Pickled Cucumbers (Gherkins) | 50g |
| Anchovies (salt-packed or oil) | 60g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 30g |
| Red Wine Vinegar | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 kcal |
| Protein | ~3g |
| Fats | ~9g |
| Carbohydrates | ~8g |
| Fiber | ~3g |
| Sodium | ~400mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Olives
Begin by carefully pitting both the green and black olives. You can use a small knife or an olive pitter for convenience. Set them aside in separate bowls.
Step 2: Slice the Pickled Vegetables
Take the pickled cucumbers (gherkins) and slice them into thin strips. Rinse the pickled bell peppers under cold running water to remove excess vinegar, and then slice them into slender strips as well.
Step 3: Clean the Cauliflower
Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and remove the outer leaves. Break it into small florets of uniform size for even cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Cauliflower
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook them until tender yet slightly crunchy—approximately 7-10 minutes. Drain the florets and let them cool to room temperature.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, place the cooled cauliflower florets. Drizzle them generously with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of red wine vinegar. Toss gently to coat.
Step 6: Add the Ingredients
Add the green olives, black olives, capers (drained of excess brine), and the prepared bell peppers. Slice the anchovies into small pieces and incorporate them into the bowl. Finally, add the sliced cucumbers.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Gently mix all the ingredients together, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully without breaking the cauliflower. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional vinegar or salt if needed.
Serve this vibrant and tangy Insalata di Rinforzo as a side dish for holiday meals or as a refreshing starter. This traditional Neapolitan dish is a festive and flavorful way to celebrate the season with your loved ones!
Keywords: cauliflower salad, Italian Christmas salad, traditional Neapolitan recipes, pickled vegetable salad, festive side dishes, anchovy recipes, Mediterranean salads, low-calorie salad recipes, holiday recipes.
