Introduction

The transition to fall brings with it a bounty of flavors that are perfect for cozy gatherings or intimate dinners. One delightful way to showcase the season’s produce is with a roasted orange fall harvest kale salad featuring the alluring crispness of prosciutto. This salad not only feels festive but also offers a balance of taste and texture, marrying sweetness and saltiness beautifully.

Kale serves as the bedrock of this dish, providing heartiness and an array of nutrients. When roasted alongside zesty oranges, the kale takes on a smokey flavor that elevates it from just a salad to a gourmet experience. Adding prosciutto introduces a savory element that complements the sweet notes while also contributing a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
Kale is nutrient-dense, packed with vitamins A, C, and K. Its sturdy leaves hold up beautifully against roasting, making it an ideal base for this salad and allowing it to absorb the flavors of the other ingredients.
2 medium oranges, segmented
Oranges add natural sweetness and a bright citrus flavor that contrasts nicely with the earthiness of the kale. Their juice also helps to soften the kale when roasted, making it more palatable.
4 ounces of prosciutto, sliced
Prosciutto provides a salty, savory element that enhances the overall flavor profile of the salad. Its crisp texture, when added to the warm salad, creates a delightful balance with the softer ingredients.
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Olive oil is key for roasting the kale, helping to achieve that perfect crispy texture while also adding healthy fats to the dish. It also carries the flavors of the oranges and seasoning.
1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
Balsamic vinegar rounds out the salad with its sweet yet tangy notes. It harmonizes the flavors of the kale, oranges, and prosciutto, creating depth in every bite.
Salt and pepper to taste
Simple seasonings like salt and pepper highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients without overpowering them. Adjusting these will ensure your salad is perfectly seasoned.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Preheating the oven is essential for achieving crispiness in the kale. A hot oven allows the moisture to escape quickly, which is vital when roasting, as it transforms the kale into a delightful textural contrast to the chewy prosciutto.

Step 2: Prepare the kale by tossing it in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread it on a baking sheet.

Tossing the kale in olive oil ensures that each leaf is coated evenly, promoting consistent roasting. Spreading the kale in a single layer prevents steaming and allows for the desired crispy texture.

Step 3: Roast the kale for about 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden.

Roasting at the right time is crucial; under-roasting will leave the kale chewy, while over-roasting will render it too brittle. Keep an eye on the kale to achieve a perfectly crispy edge.

Step 4: Meanwhile, segment the oranges over a bowl to catch the juice.

Segmenting oranges over a bowl captures any juice that may escape, ensuring you retain every bit of flavor. This juice can be drizzled over the salad later, enhancing its overall brightness.

Step 5: Once the kale is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Allowing the kale to cool for a few moments helps maintain its crispness when combined with the other ingredients. This balance is essential, as hot ingredients can wilt fresh produce.

Step 6: In a large bowl, combine the roasted kale, orange segments, and balsamic vinegar.

Combining these ingredients while the kale is still warm helps to meld the flavors together. The warmth enhances the aroma and flavor of the oranges, promoting a delightful salad experience.

Step 7: Add the prosciutto to the salad, tossing gently to combine.

Carefully adding the prosciutto last preserves its texture and keeps it distinct. Gentle tossing ensures that every bite has an equal distribution of flavors and textures.

Step 8: Serve immediately, garnished with any leftover orange juice if desired.

Serving the salad right away maintains the crispness of the kale and prosciutto. The addition of leftover orange juice adds an extra punch of flavor that is reminiscent of a fresh citrus breeze.

Roasted Orange Fall Harvest Kale Salad + Prosciutto step photo

The Art of Roasting Kale to Perfection

Roasting kale is an art that transforms its flavor and texture. By applying just the right amount of olive oil and seasoning, you can enhance its natural bitterness into something wonderfully complex. The key is to keep it in the oven long enough for a perfect crisp without turning it into chips. A careful balance ensures that the greens remain hearty and flavorful.

Prosciutto: The Savory Star of the Salad

Prosciutto’s delicate flavor and texture can elevate dishes like no other. In this salad, it contrasts sharply with the sweet oranges and earthy kale, creating a dynamic mouthfeel with each bite. Opting for high-quality prosciutto enriches the salad immensely, allowing for that luxurious element which, combined with the other ingredients, makes for an impressive dish.

Playful Pairings: Variations to Consider

This salad provides a wonderful canvas for customization. Adding nuts like toasted walnuts or pecans enhances crunch, while cheeses such as feta or goat cheese lend creaminess. You can also experiment with a variety of seasonal fruits, like pomegranate seeds or apples, to introduce new flavors and colors that celebrate the fall harvest.

FAQs

What should I do if the kale is too salty after seasoning?

If your kale is too salty, you can add more greens to balance it out. A second batch of kale or mixing in some fresh spinach can help dilute the saltiness.

Can I use another type of cured meat instead of prosciutto?

Yes, you can substitute prosciutto with other cured meats like pancetta or smoked turkey. Each will bring a unique flavor that complements the salad.

What if the oranges are not sweet enough?

If the oranges lack sweetness, consider adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the salad for an extra touch of sweetness that ties in with the roasted flavors.

How can I enhance the brightness of the salad further?

To elevate the brightness, you might add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of zest before serving, enhancing the citrus notes already present.

What can I do if my kale didn’t crisp properly?

If the kale didn’t crisp up, it may not have been coated evenly or had overcrowding on the baking sheet. Next time, make sure to spread it out in a single layer.

Is there a way to make the salad more filling?

To make the salad more filling, consider adding a grain like quinoa or farro. They provide a hearty base while complementing the flavors of the salad.

Conclusion

This roasted orange fall harvest kale salad with prosciutto beautifully showcases the bounty of the season, transforming simple ingredients into a stunning dish. The interplay of flavors and textures makes it a perfect centerpiece for any fall gathering or a light weeknight dinner.

Embrace the season’s ingredients and feel free to explore with variations that suit your palate. With a touch of creativity, this salad can become not just a meal, but a memorable experience around the table.

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