Seasonal Elegance: Crafting the Perfect Plum Salad with Manchego and Marcona Almonds
Embrace the vibrant flavors of the season with this exquisite Plum Salad, a dish that effortlessly blends rustic charm with gourmet sophistication. At its heart, this salad celebrates the luscious sweetness of perfectly ripe red plums, harmoniously paired with the rich, buttery notes of Spanish Manchego cheese and the delicate crunch of Marcona almonds. All these exquisite ingredients rest upon a bed of crisp arugula or tender baby greens, unified by a bright, simple Sherry vinaigrette that awakens the palate. This isn’t just a salad; it’s a culinary experience – a stunning centerpiece for any gathering, a refreshing accompaniment to grilled or roasted meats, or an inspired starter for a traditional Paella dinner or a festive Tapas night.
While this salad remains wonderfully straightforward to prepare, its depth of flavor is anything but simple. The inherent sweetness and slight tartness of fresh plums create an exceptional interplay with the savory, nutty Manchego, the earthy Marcona almonds, and the nuanced Sherry vinaigrette. It’s a combination that feels both festive and elegant, making it ideal for entertaining or simply brightening a weeknight meal.
The Star Ingredient: Seasonal Plums
The success of this Plum Salad truly hinges on the quality and ripeness of its namesake fruit. Plums are a cornerstone of summer and early autumn produce, reaching their peak in various regions throughout these months. In California, for instance, the plum season extends from May well into December, with a glorious peak in August. This is when local farmers’ markets and grocery stores burst with an incredible array of plum varieties, each offering unique characteristics in terms of color, sweetness, and texture.
Choosing the right plum is crucial. Look for fruit that is firm but yields slightly to gentle pressure, indicating juiciness and full flavor. Avoid plums that are overly soft or bruised. For this particular salad, I often gravitate towards dark-fleshed varieties, with the Satsuma plum being a personal favorite. These plums boast a stunning deep red, almost beet-like, flesh and skin, which adds a dramatic visual element to the salad. Beyond their striking color, Satsuma plums offer a perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of tartness, along with a firm yet tender texture that holds up beautifully when sliced into wedges. Incorporating a mix of plum varieties, such as Satsuma alongside other bright red plums, can also enhance the visual appeal and add subtle layers of flavor to your dish.
While Satsuma plums are highly recommended, feel free to experiment with other firm, sweet, and slightly tart varieties available in your area. Black plums, Santa Rosa plums, or even some yellow plum varieties can be excellent choices, as long as they are at their prime ripeness. The goal is to find plums that are juicy and flavorful, providing that delightful burst of fruitiness that cuts through the richness of the cheese and nuts.
Essential Ingredients for Your Plum Salad
Crafting this stunning salad requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture profile. Sourcing the best produce and specialty items will truly elevate this dish from good to unforgettable. Below is a detailed list of what you’ll need, along with a special note on your choice of greens.
- 5 ounces of Spring mix salad greens, Arugula, or baby greens (see note below)
- 2 medium to large ripe plums, pitted and sliced into elegant wedges
- 1/2 cup of authentic Spanish Manchego cheese, thinly sliced or shaved into delicate strips (a vegetable peeler works wonders for this!)
- 1/3 cup of Marcona almonds, whole or lightly chopped for added texture
- 1/4 cup of high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- 1/8 cup of Sherry vinegar (highly recommended for its complex flavor) or Apple Cider vinegar for a milder tang
- 1 clove of garlic, finely minced to release its aromatic essence
- 1/2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, acting as a natural emulsifier and flavor enhancer
- 1/2 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup, to balance the acidity of the vinaigrette
- 1/2 teaspoon of Kosher salt, for seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, for a hint of spice
A Note on Greens: The base of this salad offers delightful versatility. While a classic Spring mix provides a tender and subtly flavored foundation, I particularly enjoy the addition of arugula. Its distinct peppery notes introduce a vibrant counterpoint to the sweet plums and rich Manchego, adding an exciting layer of complexity that truly elevates the salad. Feel free to choose the tender greens that best suit your palate, or even combine a few varieties for a more intricate experience. Regardless of your choice, ensure your greens are fresh, crisp, and thoroughly washed for the best possible result.
Understanding Manchego: The Spanish Delight in Your Salad
The choice of cheese in this recipe is not merely a preference; it’s a foundational element that defines the salad’s character. For an authentic and truly remarkable Plum Salad, employing genuine Spanish Manchego cheese is paramount. This distinctive cheese brings a unique depth of flavor and texture that cannot be replicated by its counterparts.
Authentic Spanish Manchego Cheese
Hailing from the La Mancha region of Spain, authentic Manchego is a protected designation of origin (PDO) cheese, meaning it must adhere to strict production standards. It is exclusively made from the milk of the Manchega sheep. This sheep’s milk imparts a rich, slightly sweet, and tangy flavor profile that becomes more pronounced and complex with age. Spanish Manchego is a hard cheese, ranging from semi-cured (aged for a minimum of 60 days) to old (aged for up to two years). Its texture can be compared to a high-quality domestic Parmesan – firm, slightly crumbly, yet wonderfully buttery when shaved or thinly sliced. A key visual identifier is its distinctive dark, often basket-weave, rind, a result of the traditional grass molds used during its aging process. The mellow, nutty, and fruity notes of aged Spanish Manchego create a sublime contrast with the sweetness of plums and the tang of sherry vinegar, making it an ideal choice for this elegant salad and charcuterie boards.
Mexican Manchego Cheese: A Different Profile
In contrast, Mexican Manchego cheese, while sharing a name, is a fundamentally different product. It is typically made from cow’s milk and is not aged. This results in a softer, more pliable cheese with a texture akin to a standard American cheddar. Its flavor is milder, possessing a subtle nuttiness but lacking the complexity and sharpness of its Spanish namesake. Due to its excellent melting properties, Mexican Manchego is often favored in cooked dishes where a smooth, creamy texture is desired, such as on pizzas like my recommended Spicy Chorizo Shrimp Pizza, quesadillas, or gratins. While delicious in its own right for specific culinary applications, its characteristics would fundamentally alter the intended balance and integrity of our Plum Salad, making it less suitable for this particular recipe.
Therefore, when selecting your ingredients, be sure to seek out “Spanish Manchego” to ensure you capture the intended flavor and texture that makes this salad truly special.
Preparing and Assembling Your Elegant Plum Salad
One of the many joys of this Plum Salad is its remarkable ease of preparation, making it a perfect choice whether you’re hosting a sophisticated dinner party or simply seeking a quick yet gourmet meal. The process involves two simple steps: crafting the vibrant Sherry Vinaigrette and then artfully assembling the salad.
Crafting the Sherry Vinaigrette
The Sherry Vinaigrette is the bright, zesty thread that ties all the delightful flavors of this salad together. Its preparation is incredibly simple:
- Begin by gathering a small jar equipped with a tight-fitting lid. This will be your ideal vessel for mixing.
- Into the jar, pour the extra virgin olive oil, followed by the distinctive Sherry vinegar (or apple cider vinegar, if preferred). Sherry vinegar offers a complex, slightly nutty, and sweet-sour profile that complements Spanish ingredients beautifully.
- Add the finely minced garlic clove, Dijon mustard (which acts as an excellent emulsifier, helping the oil and vinegar stay combined), a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness, Kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Secure the lid firmly and shake vigorously until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is completely emulsified, appearing creamy and uniform.
- Before proceeding, taste the vinaigrette and adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your personal preference. A well-balanced vinaigrette is key to a truly outstanding salad. Once seasoned to your liking, your Sherry Vinaigrette is ready to dress your masterpiece!
Artful Assembly of the Salad
Assembling this salad is as much about taste as it is about presentation. Its elegant arrangement makes it particularly appealing for entertaining guests:
- First, select a large, shallow serving bowl or a beautiful platter to showcase your salad. Arrange the fresh salad greens – be it spring mix, arugula, or a combination – evenly across the base. Ensure the greens are fluffed for volume and visual appeal.
- Next, artfully arrange the sliced sweet plums on top of the greens. Consider fanning them out or scattering them aesthetically to maximize their vibrant color.
- Using a vegetable peeler, carefully shave thin strips of the Spanish Manchego cheese directly over the plums and greens. These delicate curls of cheese add an inviting visual texture and a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Finally, sprinkle the Marcona almonds evenly over the entire salad. Whether whole or lightly chopped, their distinct crunch and buttery flavor are essential.
- Remember, this salad is highly customizable! Feel free to add more or less cheese, fruit, or Marcona almonds to perfectly suit your taste and dietary preferences.
- The key to a fresh and crisp salad is to drizzle the prepared Sherry Vinaigrette just before serving. This prevents the greens from wilting and ensures every component retains its optimal texture. Toss gently if desired, but often, simply drizzling allows each guest to enjoy the full beauty of the presentation.
Versatile Serving Suggestions for Your Plum Salad
Beyond its simple preparation, this Plum Salad with Manchego and Marcona Almonds stands out as an incredibly versatile dish, making it a beloved staple in my home, especially during the peak of stone fruit season. Its unique combination of sweet, savory, and tangy notes allows it to complement a wide array of main courses and dining occasions. Here are some inspired ideas to help you enjoy this delicious creation:
Main Course Pairings
The refreshing nature of this salad makes it an excellent counterpoint to richer proteins. I frequently serve it alongside:
- Grilled or Roasted Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast or a succulent roasted chicken, like my Simple Herb Roast Chicken, finds its perfect partner in this salad. The light, herbal flavors of the chicken beautifully absorb the salad’s vibrant profile, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. For those busy weeknights, a store-bought rotisserie chicken can be transformed into a gourmet experience when paired with this elegant salad.
- Pan-Seared or Baked Salmon: The omega-rich flavors of salmon are wonderfully enhanced by the sweetness of plums and the tang of the Sherry vinaigrette. It’s a healthy and utterly delicious combination that feels light yet fulfilling.
- Pork Loin or Tenderloin: The natural sweetness of pork harmonizes exceptionally well with plums. A roasted pork loin, seasoned simply, would be elevated by the fresh, fruity notes of the salad, creating a balanced meal perfect for a Sunday dinner or a special gathering.
- Duck Breast: For a more adventurous pairing, consider serving this salad with pan-seared duck breast. The rich, savory duck provides a luxurious contrast to the bright, refreshing salad, showcasing the salad’s ability to hold its own against robust flavors.
Spanish-Inspired Gatherings
Given the inclusion of Spanish Manchego and Sherry vinegar, this salad naturally lends itself to Spanish-themed culinary events:
- Paella Night: Serve this salad as an elegant starter before a grand Paella feast. Its freshness will cleanse the palate, preparing guests for the complex flavors of the rice dish.
- Tapas & Charcuterie Spreads: This salad is an absolute showstopper on a tapas spread or charcuterie board. Its vibrant colors and diverse textures add visual interest and a burst of fresh flavor alongside cured meats, olives, and other Spanish delicacies. It offers a fresh, lighter element amidst richer items.
Whether you’re aiming for a casual family dinner or a sophisticated soirée, this Plum Salad effortlessly adapts, bringing a touch of gourmet flair to any table.
Storage Tips to Keep Your Salad Fresh
To ensure the best possible experience with your Plum Salad, proper storage is crucial. While this salad is best enjoyed freshly made and dressed, there are effective strategies for managing leftovers and preparing components in advance.
Preserving Undressed Components
The golden rule for storing this, and most salads, is to never dress the entire batch if you anticipate having leftovers. Once the vinaigrette is applied, the acidity and oil will begin to break down the delicate cell structure of the greens and plums, leading to a wilted and less appealing texture surprisingly quickly. Therefore, always drizzle the Sherry Vinaigrette over individual servings just before they are consumed.
If you’re serving this salad to a larger group, it’s highly recommended to keep the greens, sliced plums, Manchego cheese, and Marcona almonds separate from the dressing. This way, any un-dressed components can be stored effectively.
- For the Greens: Place them gently in a zip-top plastic bag or an airtight container lined with a paper towel. The paper towel helps absorb excess moisture, which is the enemy of crisp greens, keeping them fresh and vibrant for longer. Ensure the container is not overly packed, as crushed greens will wilt faster.
- For the Sliced Plums: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. A squeeze of lemon juice can help prevent browning, though it might subtly alter the flavor profile.
- For Manchego and Marcona Almonds: These can also be stored in separate airtight containers at room temperature (almonds) or in the refrigerator (cheese).
When stored correctly, the undressed components of this salad can maintain their freshness for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. This makes it an excellent candidate for meal prepping individual portions for quick lunches or dinners later in the week. Simply assemble and dress just before eating for a consistently delicious experience.
Explore More Unique Salad Creations
If the delightful combination of flavors and textures in this Plum Salad has sparked your interest in distinctive and innovative salad recipes, you’re in luck! My collection features a variety of unique salads designed to inspire your culinary journey and bring fresh excitement to your table. I’m confident you’ll discover new favorites among these:
- Summer Berry Salad with Creamy Berry Vinaigrette
- Jicama Orange Salad
- Radicchio Pear Salad with Maple Vinaigrette
- My very popular Pearl Couscous Salad with Feta & Chickpeas
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All content and photographs ©Claudia’s Table and claudiastable.com
Plum Salad with Manchego and Marcona Almonds
Ana | Claudia’s Table
September 25, 2024
Pin Recipe
Equipment
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1 large shallow bowl or platter
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1 jar small size with lid
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1 vegetable peeler optional for cheese
Ingredients
Sherry Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 1/8 cup of Sherry vinegar or Apple Cider vinegar
- 1 clove of garlic finely minced
- 1/2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon of Kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
Plum Salad
- 5 ounces of Spring salad greens Arugula, or baby greens (see note)
- 2 medium to large ripe plums pitted and sliced into wedges
- 1/2 cup of sliced Spanish Manchego cheese – use a vegetable peeler to get the cheese in strip form
- 1/3 cup of Marcona almonds whole or chopped
Instructions
Sherry Vinaigrette
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Using a small jar with a lid, add the extra virgin olive oil, Sherry vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
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Shake until completely emulsified.
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You can adjust sweetness and salt to your liking.
Plum Salad
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First, arrange the salad greens in a large shallow bowl or platter.
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Then, evenly arrange the sliced sweet plums on top of the salad.
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Add the shreds of Manchego cheese, and sprinkle the Marcona almonds evenly.
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You can add as much cheese, fruit and Marcona almonds to customize this salad to your preference.
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Drizzle the vinaigrette upon serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutritional information is calculated online and should be used as a guide.
All content and photographs ©Claudia’s Table and claudiastable.com