When I think of the authentic flavors of my land, I cannot fail to mention the prickly pear salad, a simple yet surprisingly refined dish that brings all the freshness and colors of Sicily to the table. It is a preparation I particularly love because it manages to transform such a peculiar fruit into a light and fragrant side dish, perfect for accompanying meat, fish, cheeses, or even to enjoy on its own during the hottest days.
The recipe I propose today is a very easy one that does not require long times in the kitchen. With few steps, you will be able to enhance the sweet taste of prickly pears, balancing it with a citrus note and a touch of freshness that makes this salad irresistible.
I prepare this fruit salad when I want to surprise with something different from the usual, without giving up on the genuineness of Mediterranean ingredients. If you love fresh and original summer dishes, this Sicilian side dish will soon become one of your favorites.
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- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Economic
- Preparation time: 10 Minutes
- Portions: 4 People
- Cooking methods: No cooking
- Cuisine: Regional Italian
- Region: Sicily
- Seasonality: Summer, Autumn, Ferragosto
Ingredients for Prickly Pear Salad
- 8 prickly pears
- 1 lemon (the juice)
- to taste mint (a few leaves)
- to taste extra virgin olive oil
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
Preparation PRICKLY PEAR SALAD
Peel the prickly pears, cut them into pieces and place them in a bowl.
Add the lemon juice; salt and pepper to taste.
Season with extra virgin olive oil and scent with a few fresh mint leaves.
Mix gently and serve.
Notes
You can replace the mint with a sprig of chopped parsley.
You can add a handful of olives and/or some anchovy fillets in oil.
If you liked this recipe, you might also be interested in the Prickly Pear Liqueur or the Black Mulberry Liqueur or the Almond Pastries.
FAQ
How is prickly pear salad prepared?
Prickly pear salad is prepared by peeling the fruits, cutting them into cubes, and seasoning them with lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, fresh mint, salt, and pepper. It is an easy and quick recipe.
What does prickly pear salad pair with?
This Sicilian side dish pairs perfectly with grilled fish, white meats, or cheeses, but can also be enjoyed on its own.
Which prickly pears should be chosen for the salad?
For optimal results, choose prickly pears that are just ripe enough, sweet yet firm, so as to maintain a good texture in the salad.
Can prickly pear salad be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, it is recommended to season it just before serving to maintain its freshness and color.
Is prickly pear salad suitable for a light diet?
Yes. It is a fresh, light dish rich in vitamins, perfect for those who want to enjoy a healthy recipe without sacrificing flavor.
