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Ella Cooks

Cherry & Prosciutto Arugula Salad with Honey-Balsamic Vinaigrette

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Bright, juicy cherries pair beautifully with salty, paper-thin prosciutto in this fast, elegant salad. Peppery arugula provides a vibrant base, while creamy goat cheese and toasted almonds add rich contrast. A honey-balsamic vinaigrette ties it all together with sweet-tart depth,perfect for spring lunches, light dinners, or a stunning side at your next gathering.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Salad
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad
  • 4 cups 4 oz baby arugula
  • 1 cup fresh cherries pitted and halved
  • 4 oz prosciutto torn into bite-size strips
  • 2 oz goat cheese crumbled (about ¼ cup)
  • ¼ cup toasted sliced almonds
Honey-Balsamic Vinaigrette
  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Pinch of salt & freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

  • Large salad bowl
  • Small bowl or jar (for vinaigrette)
  • Whisk or fork
  • Salad tongs or serving spoons
  • Knife & cutting board

Method
 

Instructions
    Toast the Almonds (Optional, 2 minutes):
    1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast almonds, shaking pan until golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
    Make the Vinaigrette (2 minutes):
    1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
    Assemble the Salad (3 minutes):
    1. In a large bowl, combine arugula, cherries, and prosciutto strips.
    Dress & Finish (3 minutes):
    1. Drizzle half the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently.
    2. Sprinkle goat cheese and toasted almonds on top.
    3. Drizzle remaining vinaigrette if desired. Serve immediately.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 6gFat: 16gSodium: 420mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8g

    Notes

    Pro Tips
    • Cherry Swap: If cherries aren’t in season, substitute halved strawberries or stone fruits like apricot or peach.
    • Nut Alternatives: Walnuts or pistachios work beautifully in place of almonds.
    • Greens Variations: Mix in baby spinach or mâche for a milder base.
    • Make-Ahead: Prep cherries and vinaigrette up to 2 hours ahead; keep prosciutto and cheese separate until just before serving to maintain texture.
    Frequently Asked Questions
    • Can I use another cured meat?
      Yes—thinly sliced Serrano ham or jamón ibérico are excellent prosciutto alternatives.
    • How do I pit cherries quickly?
      Use a paper-clip or a cherry pitter tool to push the pit out from the stem end.
    • Is this salad gluten-free?
      Yes—just double-check that your mustard and vinegar contain no hidden gluten.

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