Hey there, fellow food and craft enthusiasts! Robert Kline here, ready to share a recipe that’s bursting with the season’s freshest flavors—and a unique twist. We’re diving into the world of Instant Pot cooking with a delightful Summer Peach & Tomato Salad, featuring crispy ham and a vibrant pistachio pesto. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your friends with this simple yet elegant dish.
Instant Pot Magic: A Surprising Tool for Salad Making
You might be thinking, “An Instant Pot for salad? Really, Robert?” Trust me on this one! While we often associate the Instant Pot with hearty stews and comforting soups, it’s also a secret weapon for creating unexpectedly delicious salads. In this recipe, we’ll use the Instant Pot’s sauté function to quickly cook our ham to crispy perfection, adding a savory counterpoint to the sweet peaches and juicy tomatoes.
Gathering Your Garden Bounty: Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, we’re embracing the peak flavors of summer. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup arugula or mixed greens
- 4 slices of your favorite ham
For the Pistachio Pesto:
- 1/2 cup shelled pistachios
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Crafting Culinary Delights: Step-by-Step Guide
- Pistachio Pesto Perfection: In a food processor, combine pistachios, Parmesan, garlic, basil, and olive oil. Pulse until a coarse paste forms. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Crispy Ham Delight: Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Once hot, add the ham slices and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until crispy and slightly browned. Remove the ham and set aside to cool.
- Salad Assembly: In a large bowl, gently toss the peaches, tomatoes, and arugula.
- Flavor Fusion: Drizzle the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey over the salad. Season with salt and pepper, then toss to coat.
- Plating with Panache: Arrange the salad on a platter. Slice the cooled ham and arrange it artfully on top of the salad.
- Pesto Finale: Dollop spoonfuls of the pistachio pesto over the salad and serve immediately.
Robert Kline’s Expert Tips:
- Peachy Keen: For a sweeter salad, choose ripe, juicy peaches. If you prefer a bit of tartness, slightly underripe peaches work beautifully.
- Hamming it Up: Feel free to experiment with different types of ham. Prosciutto, Black Forest ham, or even a honey-glazed ham would all lend unique flavors to this salad.
- Pesto Variations: Get creative with your pesto! Toasted walnuts or almonds can be substituted for the pistachios.
- Make it a Meal: Add a protein boost to this salad by topping it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a heartier meal.
A Summer Salad to Savor
This Instant Pot Peach & Tomato Salad with Crispy Ham and Pistachio Pesto is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty. The combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
So, why not embrace the joy of homemade creations and whip up this delightful salad? Don’t forget to share your culinary masterpieces with me! I always love to see the creative ways you’re bringing Robert Kline Art’s inspiration into your kitchens. Looking for more unique handmade gifts and inspiration? Be sure to explore the rest of our website!