Description
Jamie Oliver’s rocket salad delivers a zesty Mediterranean-inspired harmony of fresh arugula, parmesan shavings, and lemon-kissed olive oil dressing. Simple ingredients combine to create a light, elegant starter that transports diners straight to Italian countryside charm.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 8 rashers higher-welfare pancetta or smoked streaky bacon
- 4 big handfuls rocket
- 4 sprigs thyme
- 2 medium red onions
Nuts and Seeds:
- 1 good handful pine nuts
Seasonings and Dressings:
- 2 lugs olive oil
- 1 tiny pinch salt
- Parmesan (to taste)
- Balsamic vinegar (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare two medium-sized red onions by carefully peeling and cutting each one into eight uniform wedges. In a skillet over medium-high heat, crisp eight strips of pancetta or smoked streaky bacon until golden and crunchy.
- Remove the crispy bacon and add three tablespoons (45 milliliters) of extra virgin olive oil to the same pan. Introduce four fresh thyme sprigs, the quartered onions, a generous handful of pine nuts, and a pinch of kosher salt.
- Sauté the ingredients over medium-low heat for approximately five to six minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions caramelize and develop a sweet, golden-brown color without burning.
- Return the crispy pancetta to the pan and gently toss to combine the flavors and reheat the bacon.
- Add four large handfuls of fresh rocket leaves (arugula) or mixed salad greens, carefully folding them into the warm mixture until they slightly wilt but remain vibrant.
- Drizzle approximately three tablespoons (45 milliliters) of aged balsamic vinegar over the dish, allowing it to create a natural, glossy reduction when it mingles with the olive oil.
- Finish the dish by generously garnishing with freshly shaved Parmesan cheese, using a vegetable peeler to create delicate, thin curls. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors.
Notes
- Fresh rocket leaves add a peppery kick and crisp texture to elevate the salad’s overall flavor profile.
- Slow caramelization transforms red onions into sweet, golden strands that melt in your mouth.
- Splurge on authentic Parmesan with its robust, nutty essence that crumbles perfectly over the dish.
- Balsamic vinegar becomes your flavor maestro – a few drops can dramatically transform the entire salad’s taste.
- Watch the salt levels carefully when incorporating pancetta or bacon to maintain a perfectly balanced bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg