Salad revival Italian style :

Perfect Partners

What better fit is there than a platter of Italian meats and cheeses. The list is endless – off the top of my head, pepperoni, Parma ham, salami, bresaola, mortadella, prosciutto. The same is true of cheeses, gorgonzola, fontina, robiola, taleggio (my favourite) ricotta – which is particularly yummy drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Arranged on a platter, place a bowl of oil and vinegar in the centre – two parts extra virgin olive oil to one part balsamic vinegar.

Now is the time I refer you to the previous post “Fruit and Nut Sides” - meat, cheese, fruit and nuts - serve your meat and cheese with the dates and almonds!

So, your Italian sharing platters are :

Mushroom Salad

Frittata

Stromboli

Dates wrapped in Parma ham

Spiced almonds

Mixed meat and cheese platter

By the way, if you live in the sticks and don't have a decent cheese shop or deli to hand I can save your legs – Robiola is difficult to get hold of – as an alternative you could try ordinary cream cheese or Boursin – I know, I know Boursin isn't Italian but needs must!

Holidays bring deals in the supermarkets – I know that Italian meats can be expensive but keep your eyes peeled – they are usually on offer, especially at this time of year.

If you are treating yourself any time soon, here's a photo of the book I mentioned “Cicchetti”

Worth every penny – you won't regret it.