Basilicata Peperoni Cruschi Salad

Amanda McKillop

This vibrant salad takes inspiration from the heart of Basilicata, Italy, where Peperoni Cruschi—sun-dried and crispy sweet peppers—are a delicacy. Combined with fresh herbs, creamy ricotta salata, and a drizzle of exquisite olive oil, this dish is a textural masterpiece that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Southern Italy.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 5

Total Time 20

Course Salad

Cuisine Italian

Servings servings

Calories 123 kcal

Equipment

Sharp knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowl
Small skillet
Tongs
Serving platter

Ingredients

6 pieces Peperoni Cruschi (dried sweet Italian peppers) Lightly fried for crispiness
2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil Preferably from Basilicata
3 ½ ounces Ricotta salata Crumbled or shaved
1 cup Arugula Fresh and slightly peppery
1 cup Cherry tomatoes Halved
½ teaspoon Sea salt To taste
¼ teaspoon Black pepper Freshly ground
1 tablespoon Balsamic vinegar For added depth of flavor
1 tablespoon Fresh basil Roughly chopped

Instructions

Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the Peperoni Cruschi and fry for about 20-30 seconds per side. They should crisp up quickly but not burn. Remove with tongs and set aside on a paper towel.
In a mixing bowl, combine the arugula, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Gently mix to coat the ingredients evenly.
Break the crispy Peperoni Cruschi into smaller pieces and sprinkle them over the salad.
Top the salad with crumbled ricotta salata, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Transfer the salad onto a serving platter and serve immediately to enjoy the crunch of the Peperoni Cruschi before they soften.

Notes

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding toasted pine nuts or shaved aged Pecorino.
Peperoni Cruschi should be fried lightly to remain crisp. If they burn, they will taste bitter.

Nutrition

Calories: 123kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 4gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 14mgSodium: 352mgPotassium: 139mgFiber: 0.4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 438IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 66mgIron: 1mg

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