Fig Deal--the Easiest of Ways

I went this morning to my Trader Joe's just to do a little bit of food shopping. I am leaving on vacation soon and my other refrigerator is still broken, so I am quite limited in my seasonal grocery madness. But for the remaining few days I needed some items that my kids cannot live without. Of course I ended up buying more than I needed, but I hope this can also inspire you.

As I walked into the fresh produce section I noticed right away boxes of Californian figs. I love them in their peak. They can be then soft and sweet as honey. When I grabbed a box of them and a pack of prosciutto I knew what I was going to have for lunch. This combination is delicious--crispy salad, salted and smoky ham, and the sweetness of the figs. Anything better on a sunny afternoon?

Besides, did you know that the mineral content of figs closely resembles that of human milk? They are rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, calcium and iron.

Fig and Prosciutto Salad
Serves six

Ingredients:
1 bag (4 oz) of baby Romain lettuce,
1 box (about 10 oz) of California figs,
1 pack (6 oz) of good quality prosciutto,
balsamic vinegar,
extra virgin olive oil,
salt and pepper.

Preparation:
1. Arrange lettuce on the plate, sprinkle with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper,
2. Put the prosciutto slices on top.
3. Cut three figs and arrange them next to the prosciutto.

Enjoy with a piece of fresh baguette.

Useful tip:
This salad can be used as a started before any dinner.