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Persimmon, Avocado and Serrano Ham Salad

January 4, 2012 by Nancy Lopez-McHugh 59 Comments

**January 6 Update: Thanks for voting this recipe into Foodbuzz daily top 9, Jan 6,2012**

Persimmon; Serrano Ham Salad; salad; persimmon; Serrano ham; Spanish ham; cured ham; prosciuto; ham; avocado; onion; pomegranate seeds; salad; recipe; healthy; low calories; low fat; promagnio cheese; parmesan cheese; Spicie Foodie
I’ve always loved salads. When I lived in the US Caesar salad was my favorite. It spent a long time on top of my favorite salads lists.  Finding a good Caesar was usually not a problem. Then when we moved to Europe, Caesar got knocked off the top of the list. In Paris even the small side salad served alongside a meal tasted fantastic. I loved the simple mustard dressing or light vinaigrette used as salad dressings in France. Don’t get me wrong a thick creamy American style salad dressing is great every once in a while but most days I prefer the light alternatives.

Persimmon; Serrano Ham Salad; salad; persimmon; Serrano ham; Spanish ham; cured ham; prosciuto; ham; avocado; onion; pomegranate seeds; salad; recipe; healthy; low calories; low fat; promagnio cheese; parmesan cheese; Spicie Foodie

When we moved to Czech Republic salads were a little more hit and miss. I recall a conversation my friend and I once had about salads. I told her that I was really craving a good fresh and seasonal salad loaded with crisp salad greens. She looked at me and said, “Oh you are craving rabbit food.” Laughter aside she explained that those types of salads weren’t as popular here. My cravings for good salads at restaurants got to be so much that I resorted to drastic means. I started visiting the American fast food restaurants for decent salads. Which I have to admit really satisfied my cravings. As the time has passed finding fantastic seasonal salads has become less of a problem. As a matter of fact I had one of the best Caesars of my life right here in Prague.

Persimmon; Serrano Ham Salad; salad; persimmon; Serrano ham; Spanish ham; cured ham; prosciuto; ham; avocado; onion; pomegranate seeds; salad; recipe; healthy; low calories; low fat; promagnio cheese; parmesan cheese; Spicie Foodie

Since I started cooking I no longer have to rely on restaurants to satisfy my salad cravings. As the time has passed and my adventurous food side has grown, I’ve experimented with all sorts of ingredients. One of my favorite things to do is go to the green grocers and see what salad greens, vegetables and fruits I can bring home to experiment with. Many of the exotic ingredients aren’t always available but that is when my creativity gets going. This salad is the result of one such trip and creativity.

Persimmon; Serrano Ham Salad; salad; persimmon; Serrano ham; Spanish ham; cured ham; prosciuto; ham; avocado; onion; pomegranate seeds; salad; recipe; healthy; low calories; low fat; promagnio cheese; parmesan cheese; Spicie Foodie

As proud of myself as I am for being adventurous and creative with salads, there is one person who’s salads I really admire. That person is known to some of us as “The Veggie Queen”. But I think she needs an additional title, ” Salad Queen” . That person is my friend Alisha, aka Magic of Spice, from The Ardent Epicure. Alisha’s salads always make my mouth water. But they are also a feast for the eyes. Her use of fresh seasonal, local, and organic, ingredients is incredible. Believe me if you are looking for five star veggie or salad recipes, The Ardent Epicure is THE best source to go to. I promise she didn’t pay me to say that, just saying it like it is.

Pomegranate Molasses Dressing; Salad dressing; Pomegranate Molasses; pomegranate dressing; low fat; low calories; no cream; no dairy; vegan; vegetarian; Spicie Foodie; recipe

Taking inspiration from Alisha this salad came together with the use of fresh seasonal ingredients. Both Persimmon and Pomegranates are currently in season. This salad was a great combination of sweet, tart, and savory. Here is how I made this salad for my hubby and I.

Persimmon, Avocado and Serrano Ham Salad
(with avocado and pomegranate molasses dressing)
Baby spinach, to taste
1 sweet persimmon, peeled and cut in half then thinly sliced wedges
1/2 avocado, thinly sliced
Pomegranate seeds, to taste
onion slices, to taste
Serrano ham (Spanish cured ham) or Prosciuto, 1-2 slices per person
Pratomagno cheese or Parmesan, a few shavings

Pomegranate molasses dressing for 2:
1 tbsp pomegranate molasses
2 tbsp EVOO (good quality olive oil)
1 tbsp water
1/2 tbsp brown sugar
pinch granulated garlic
pinch ground ginger
pinch ground black pepper

Salad Instructions:
Gently toss ingredients in a salad bowl or arrange on plates as desired.

Dressing Instructions:
Place all ingredients in a jar, seal tightly. Shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined. Taste and adjust as desired. Drizzle over salad.

Serve salad alongside some rustic or country style bread.

Persimmon; Serrano Ham Salad; salad; persimmon; Serrano ham; Spanish ham; cured ham; prosciuto; ham; avocado; onion; pomegranate seeds; salad; recipe; healthy; low calories; low fat; promagnio cheese; parmesan cheese; Spicie Foodie

Many of us are trying to eat better now that the holiday season is over, and this salad is staying within my healthy plans. Yes, there is cheese in the salad, and yes it has cured ham. But both the cheese and ham are just small amounts. By adding a little protein to your salad it will help you feel fuller longer. Also I don’t believe in depriving myself of good things to eat regardless if I am eating healthier or not. I can also make up for the extra fat by choosing less caloric foods the rest of the day. Moderation is the key. I know from personal experience that when you deprive yourself of things you like, you are more likely to cheat. You’ll get frustrated and only focus on what you can’t have which can lead to giving up and indulging, too much and too often, on unhealthy quantities and low quality foods. This is not only what I believe but my personal experience. Everyone is different and the most important thing is to always listen to your body. Buen Provecho!

Persimmon; Serrano Ham Salad; salad; persimmon; Serrano ham; Spanish ham; cured ham; prosciuto; ham; avocado; onion; pomegranate seeds; salad; recipe; healthy; low calories; low fat; promagnio cheese; parmesan cheese; Spicie Foodie

Other Salads (and a salsa) from the Spicie Foodie archives:
– A Killer Salad That Won’t Kill You
– Flower Showers, Spring Serenade, Gourmet Greens and Tangerines
– Watermelon Feta Salsa with Fresh Horseradish, Euro-Mexican Fusion
– Nectarine Tomato Basil Salad With A Little Kick
Spicie Foodie Salads; Healthy and Low Fat Salad Recipes; salads; fruit; vegetables; sweet; salty; savory; vegetarian; vegan; vinaigrette; recetas de ensalada; no cream; light; Spicie Foodie

More Yummy Salads By Foodie Friends:
– Beet Leaf Salad with Sugar Snap Peas and Mandarin Segments by Pham Fatale
– Fresh and crispy fennel and orange salad with a twist by Share My Kitchen
– kale salad with grapefruit and pomegranate seeds by Brooklyn Supper
– Ready for Veggies! by Cooking Healthy For Me
– Marinated Kale Salad by VegNews
– Spinach Feta Blood Orange Salad by Joy The Baker

SaveSave

Filed Under: Salads

« 12 Healthy Recipes For A Healthy Start To 2012
Cochinita Pibil, The Easy Way »

Comments

  1. Tiffany says

    January 4, 2012 at 10:05

    Love the little pomegrante jewels! This dressing sounds amazing!

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 4, 2012 at 10:24

      Gracias amiga :)

      Reply
  2. Isabelle @ Crumb says

    January 4, 2012 at 10:31

    This sounds like my kind of salad – fresh ingredients, tangy dressing, and lots of texture and colour and flavour to keep it interesting. Hopefully I can still get my hands on some persimmons… I think the season is winding down over here.

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 4, 2012 at 10:33

      Hi Isabelle, Thank you! I hope you can get the persimmons too. They are still everywhere here so you may have some luck.

      Reply
  3. April says

    January 4, 2012 at 11:35

    I have never had persimmons before but this salad looks amazing! I agree with you, every once and a while you want the thick heavy dressing covered salad (aka ceasar) but most times I love the light salad with fresh ingredients…and everything about this salad screams delicious :)

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 4, 2012 at 12:18

      Thank you April. You should really try persimmons. They are such a unique taste that is hard to describe but quite tasty :)

      Reply
  4. Sandra's Easy Cooking says

    January 4, 2012 at 12:27

    Yum, yum and some more yum! Looks so fresh and beautiful….I love this salad and I adore Alisha and her recipes too! Awesome photos, and thanks for sharing!!!!

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 4, 2012 at 17:40

      Hehe, thanks Sandra :)

      Reply
  5. Leslie @ La Cocina de Leslie says

    January 4, 2012 at 12:57

    Not only is this salad stunning,, but I love every single one of the ingredients. Avocado. Pomegranate. Persimmons. (Sigh!) (Persimmons are one of my favorite fruits.) Sounds absolutely dreamy! :)

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 4, 2012 at 17:40

      Thank you Leslie :)

      Reply
  6. Tina@flourtrader says

    January 4, 2012 at 14:32

    I love the components in this salad-super textures and flavors. Also the dressing is something that would be good on most salads-yum! As far as I am concerned, salads do have a place on the table to represent the whole meal. This post is proof of that-well done.

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 4, 2012 at 17:41

      I also do think that the dressing will work on many salads. We often have salads a our meal so of course I agree with you. Thanks :)

      Reply
  7. Amy @ Gastronome Tart says

    January 4, 2012 at 14:40

    Pomegranate Molasses and Serrano Ham are two of my favorite things. This will be perfect to try this time of the year!

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 4, 2012 at 17:42

      Glad to hear you are a fan, thanks Amy :)

      Reply
  8. claudia lamascolo says

    January 4, 2012 at 15:25

    I just cant get enough views looking at these gorgeous photos who wouldnt want to eat your scrumptious recipes lovely presentation!

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 4, 2012 at 17:42

      Thank you Claudia :)

      Reply
  9. Kiri W. says

    January 4, 2012 at 15:27

    Looks absolutely gorgeous!
    Question: I’ve tried persimmons, and while I love the flavor, the after-taste/sensation is mealy and covering my gums. What am I doing wrong? ;)

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 4, 2012 at 17:43

      Danke Kiri! Hum, I’m not sure. Perhaps someone else here can answer it for you. But I usually wait until my Persimmons are really soft, never had the mealy taste.

      Reply
  10. Terris@ Free Eats says

    January 4, 2012 at 15:36

    I LOVE this salad. I’m definitely a salty sweet gal, so I’m going to try this. We also happen to have a neighborhood persimmon tree that’s loaded right now! Score. You’ve been buzzed. :)

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 4, 2012 at 17:44

      Thank you Terris! How lucky for you, I would be there picking fruit everyday :)

      Reply
  11. Sheelagh says

    January 4, 2012 at 15:59

    Thank you! I have pomegranate molasses for months now and never know what to do with it. Haven’t had persimmons either before I don’t think, but this whole dish sounds fresh fragrant and healthy, which is always a plus with my shrinking jeans ;-) Fantastic blog too. x

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 4, 2012 at 17:45

      Thanks Sheelagh! What a perfect opportunity for you to try both then :)

      Reply
  12. 1recette 1minute says

    January 4, 2012 at 16:33

    Love your recipe, it looks so delicious!!!
    And your dressing is amazing:)
    I wish you a happy new year by the way!

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 4, 2012 at 17:45

      Thank you and happy new year to you too!

      Reply
  13. Felicia says

    January 4, 2012 at 16:45

    This is precisely the type of salad I’ve been craving lately — like you, I’ve been feeling like eating lighter (but still tasty) things after the holidays. I’ll have to try this!

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 4, 2012 at 17:46

      Thanks Felicia! I hope you do make the salad and that it satisfies your craving.

      Reply
  14. Kelly @ Inspired Edibles says

    January 4, 2012 at 21:07

    What a gorgeous salad spicey foodie – colourful, fresh and full of life – and your photos are just so beautiful too!

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 5, 2012 at 08:51

      Thank you Kelly :)

      Reply
  15. Gina says

    January 5, 2012 at 01:04

    How funny, she is totally the “Salad Queen”. I need rabbit food and lots of it, age is not kind to the metabolism. I’m so glad I’m not the only one who doesn’t like the thick salad dressings that seem to be so popular. Yours is so beautiful as always. Are you trying to give Alisha a run for her money, lol? Happy New Years, I’m hoping 2012 is the magic year for you.
    -Gina-

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 5, 2012 at 08:54

      Gina you are the “Cookie Queen” :) I know our aging metabolism sucks! Haha, and I thought I was the only one that didn’t. No, Alisha has nothing to worry about. Her title says it all :) Happy New Years sweetie! Thank you and I also hope that 2012 is a great year for you. Hugs!

      Reply
  16. Ann says

    January 5, 2012 at 03:03

    Delicious AND stunning! That salad is a work of art! I’d hesitate to eat it….but I won’t!

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 5, 2012 at 08:54

      Thank you Ann :)

      Reply
  17. Michelle chin says

    January 5, 2012 at 04:06

    I can imagine how exotic this salad will be! It would make a nice addition to a dinner party for sure. :)

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 5, 2012 at 08:54

      Thanks Michelle! Yes, it would be a hit a dinner party. It has a little bit for everyone’s taste.

      Reply
  18. Patty says

    January 5, 2012 at 12:49

    Beautiful post Nancy! Wonderful hearty meal of a salad to enjoy on a Winter’s night for dinner.
    I agree that Alisha’s salads are jaw dropping, her ingredients are a testament to farmers markets everywhere and of course her talent. I also want to mention how much I like the warmth of these photos, so satisfying in this season! Hugs to you;-)

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 5, 2012 at 18:51

      Thank you Patty :) Hugs back sweetie!

      Reply
  19. Rosa says

    January 5, 2012 at 16:15

    That is one lovely salad! What a wonderful combination and presentation.

    Cheers,

    Rosa

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 5, 2012 at 18:51

      Thank you Rosa :)

      Reply
  20. anna says

    January 5, 2012 at 19:15

    probably my favorite thing about cooking is not having to rely on restaurants/bakeries/grocery stores to meet my cravings! your pictures here are so lovely…

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 5, 2012 at 19:24

      Thank you Anna! Yes that is so true, we make what we crave when we want.

      Reply
  21. Vicki Challancin says

    January 5, 2012 at 21:45

    What a terrific combination of ingredients. Beautiful presentation as well–and loely photos.

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 6, 2012 at 09:54

      Thank you Vicki :)!

      Reply
  22. Magic of Spice says

    January 5, 2012 at 21:59

    OK, so now my face is the same color as my hair :) Thank you so much for the wonderful words sweetie! And this salad is just stunning…the flavors work together so beautifully, perfection! And I must steal this dressing, sounds so wonderful. The photos and styling are, as always, fantastic!
    P.S. I almost picked up persimmons the other day when I was shopping, but decided to wait for the farmer’s market, lol

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 6, 2012 at 09:54

      Haha, So now you’ll match the photo background too :) Thank you sweetie!

      Reply
  23. Liz says

    January 6, 2012 at 08:44

    Hooray for the Top 9!!! Stunning AND delicious salad!

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 6, 2012 at 09:53

      Thank you Lizzy :)

      Reply
  24. Dara says

    January 6, 2012 at 10:16

    Love it! I agree – the best salads combine unique, seasonal ingredients with yummy dressing. Beautifully done. Congrats on Top 9.

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 6, 2012 at 10:22

      Thank you and glad you agree. Congrats to you as well!

      Reply
  25. amanda says

    January 6, 2012 at 16:45

    Love this! As soon as my husband saw the title of the recipe, he said, that sounds Spanish. We also have noticed how they don’t really love dark leafy greens as much here in Spain, so I’m sure we’ll be making a version of this soon. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 6, 2012 at 17:10

      Hi Amanda, Thank you. That is too bad about the dark leafy vegetables, I love them :)

      Reply
  26. Jaime aka The Tomato Snob says

    January 6, 2012 at 23:42

    The photo is awesome! The dish sounds delish. What camera do you use?

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 7, 2012 at 10:04

      Thanks Jaime! You can get all my equipment details in the Photography page, http://www.spiciefoodie.com/photography/ .

      Reply
  27. Lori Lynn says

    January 7, 2012 at 13:26

    Beautiful salad! The dressing sounds terrific!
    LL

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 7, 2012 at 13:39

      Thank you Lori Lynn :) Happy new year, hope it is off to a great start.

      Reply
  28. Platanos, Mangoes and Me! says

    January 8, 2012 at 20:54

    What a gorgeous salad. The fruit was my mother’s favorite and you just brought back memories of her…thank you!

    Reply
    • Spicie Foodie says

      January 9, 2012 at 10:29

      Thanks! Really? Oh that is so sweet :)

      Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Rosemary Corn Muffins with Goji Berries For A Gojee Potluck says:
    January 16, 2012 at 08:23

    […] up recipes, as a way of taste testing before I move forward with the recipe. Then there are those trips to the green grocers were I dream up pairings in my head. Daydreaming while doing house work has also yield many of my […]

    Reply
  2. Sunday Snapshots: This Week’s Market Finds (Quail Eggs, Persimmon, Brussels Sprouts, Bavarian Bread and Grapefruit Beer) says:
    December 9, 2012 at 11:06

    […] Whenever I find fresh Brussels sprouts I have to buy them. I prefer them fresh but won’t complain if only frozen are available. This time instead of roasting I shredded them and sauteed with a little olive oil then topped with Amelia’s Spicing pecans. We both loved how great the Brussels sprouts tasted in this new cooking way for us. Persimmon was on sale so I grabbed a couple Persimmon to make my Avocado and Serrano Ham Salad. […]

    Reply
  3. Mexican Exotic and Tropical Fruits | Get to know some of Mexico’s more exotic and tropical fruits | Spicie Foodie says:
    July 28, 2014 at 22:41

    […] or a black sapote, it is native to Mexico and Central America and it is also in the same family as persimmon. Other names for this exotic fruit are chocolate persimmon and/or chocolate pudding fruit. The […]

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