Prosciutto and Melon Salad

Serves

The classic sweet-salty pairing of prosciutto and melon inspires this summery salad.

Ingredients

1 small ripe cantaloupe or Galia melon
4 ounces baby arugula, or 1 head Boston (Bibb) lettuce
6 slices prosciutto ham (cut into 1/2 by 2-inch strips)
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (preferably aged)
2 tablespoons pine nuts (toasted)
  Sea salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste)

Directions

Cut the melon in half and discard the seeds. Using a melon baller, remove the flesh in neat balls, or alternately, cut the fruit into 3/4-inch cubes (discard the rind).

Place the oil and vinegar in a medium-size bowl and whisk to combine. Add the arugula and toss to coat the greens. Divide the arugula among 4 chilled salad plates. Garnish each serving with melon balls, ribbons of prosciutto, and a scattering of pine nuts. Season to taste with salt and pepper.