Apricot And Arugula Salad With Fresh Ricotta Recipes

ARUGULA SALAD WITH GRILLED FRUIT

Steps:

• For the Vinaigrette: Combine the balsamic vinegar and shallot in a small bowl. Slowly pour the olive into the bowl, whisking constantly. Season with salt and pepper.
• For the Arugula Salad: Place a grill pan over medium-high heat or preheat a gas or charcoal grill. Brush the apricots with the olive oil and grill for 2 minutes on each side. On the other side of the grill cook the pancetta slices on each side, until crispy, about 1 to 2 minutes.
• To serve: Place the arugula in a large salad bowl. Slice the grilled apricots and add to the bowl. Add the vinaigrette and toss to lightly coat the arugula. Crumble the pancetta over the top and sprinkle with the hazelnuts. Serve immediately.
• *Cook's Note: You can use any stone fruit such as peaches or plums. Red apples or figs are also great alternatives.

APRICOT AND ARUGULA SALAD WITH FRESH RICOTTA

Steps:

• In a small bowl, combine the ricotta, zest, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Set aside.
• Combine the vinegar, mustard, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a small bowl. Whisk to blend, and continue to whisk as you drizzle in the olive oil.
• Put the arugula and apricots in a large bowl, drizzle about two-thirds of the dressing over, and toss gently but thoroughly with your hands. Toss and taste the salad. Add more dressing or vinegar, salt, and pepper as needed. Spread on a serving platter, or divide among 4 salad plates.
• Scatter teaspoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the salad.
• Make extra of the ricotta mixture and spread it on bruschetta or toast.

ARUGULA SALAD WITH GRILLED APRICOTS AND PISTACHIOS

Steps:

• Heat a griddle over a hot grill or burner, or preheat an indoor grill.
• Combine arugula, half the pistachios, and basil in a large bowl.
• Whisk together vinegars, salt and pepper, and 3 tablespoons of the olive oil.
• Cut apricots in half and remove pits. Brush cut side with remaining olive oil. Grill for about 2 minutes on the cut side, until seared but intact. Remove from the heat.
• Toss together arugula mixture, dressing and half the apricots. Arrange on a platter. Arrange the remaining apricots, goat cheese or feta and remaining pistachios over the top, and serve.