Roasted Tomato & Kale Salad with Prosciutto Crisps
Before you turn your nose up at kale, give me some latitude. It’s ok to substitute romaine or field greens if you just don’t like it. This salad involves a few techniques, but it’s simple to prepare, and the combination of naturally sweet roasted tomatoes, lemon-marinated kale and salty shards of crispy prosciutto make it so delicious, you may actually change your mind about kale! This is also a wonderful way to use up tomatoes that might be past their prime. No waste!
Yield: 4
Roasted Tomato & Kale Salad with Prosciutto Crisps
Prep time: 20 MinCook time: 25 MinInactive time: 12 HourTotal time: 12 H & 45 M
Ingredients
- 8 ounces variety of cherry, grape or small heirlooms combination
- 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, enough to lightly coat tomatoes
- 3 to 4 slices prosciutto
- 2 bunches lacinato kale, ribs removed
- Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Method
- Preheat oven to 350º F.
- Cut the tomatoes in half and place in a bowl.
- Toss with the 2 Tablespoons of olive oil, and arrange, cut side down on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
- On another sheet pan lined with parchment paper, place the prosciutto slices, not touching.
- Bake the tomatoes until blistered and slightly shriveled, about 20 to 25 minutes, and prosciutto 10 to 12 minutes, until slightly crispy. Don’t over bake, as the prosciutto will firm up as it cools.
- Remove the thick ribs from the kale and cut the leaves into 2 inch pieces. Place in a mixing bowl.
- Squeeze the lemon juice over the kale leaves and “massage” the leaves, squeezing and breaking apart to tenderize, about 2 to 3 minutes. This can also be done a day ahead, and refrigerated, the acid helps to further tenderize the leaves.
- Right before serving, assemble the salad. Toss the kale with the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Place the kale on a serving platter.
- Break the prosciutto into crisps. Top kale with tomatoes and prosciutto crisps. Drizzle with a little extra balsamic if desired.
