Joanne Weir Follow @ChefJoanneWeir

Little Gem Salad with Grilled Figs and Prosciutto

Little Gem Salad with Grilled Figs and Prosciutto

We all know that figs and prosciutto are a marriage made in heaven.  Figs have a subtle sweetness and are really good for you!  When buying prosciutto, make sure to ask your "deli man" to slice you nice thin slices of Italian prosciutto, either Prosciutto di Parma or Prosciutto di San Danielle.  The real stuff makes all the difference and really brings this salad alive!

Serves 6

Wine suggestion: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

 

Ingredients

9 fresh figs, halved
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons fig balsamic vinegar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 heads Little Gem lettuces, leaves separated and left whole
½ cup almonds, toasted and very coarsely chopped
6 to 9 thin slices prosciutto, about 3 ounces

Instructions

Preheat an outdoor grill.

Brush the cut side of the figs with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil.  Set aside.
Whisk together the remaining 3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar and fig balsamic vinegar.  Season with salt and pepper.  Grill the cut side of the figs until warm.

In a large bowl, toss together the Little Gems, almonds and the vinaigrette.  Place on a platter and garnish with the figs and ribbons of prosciutto.

Note:  If you can't find Littl Gem lettuce, use butter lettuce or baby romaine.