Ingredients

  • 1 granny smith apple, cored, unpeeled
  • 1 firm pear, cored, unpeeled
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 6 -8 ounces parmigiano-reggiano cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, thinly sliced (fresh *only*!)
  • 1 tablespoon aged dark balsamic vinegar
  • mixed greens (optional)

Method

  • Note: if you wish, line the salad plates with mixed greens.
  • Cut the apple and pear into thin matchsticks.
  • Place the fruit in a bowl and add the olive oil and lemon juice.
  • Toss to coat.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Divide the fruit mixture onto 4 salad plates.
  • Break the cheese into about 8-12 equal chunks.
  • For each salad plate, place 2-3 chunks of the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
  • Garnish with the fresh basil.
  • Drizzle the vinegar around the cheese, then sprinkle salad lightly with cracked black pepper.
  • Serve at room temperature.