Nestled in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden, La Ballerina Italian Restaurant has built a reputation for delivering authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist. Among the beloved dishes on our menu, the Prosciutto Pollo Salad stands out as a perfect example of combining rich flavours with balanced nutrition, making it an ideal option for diners looking for a lighter, yet flavour-packed meal. Priced at just £15.50, this salad pairs premium Parma ham with tender chicken, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable.
A Unique Take on Italian Salad
Italian cuisine is known for its simple yet flavourful ingredients, and salads are no exception. While Italian salads often include a variety of fresh vegetables, cheeses, and cured meats, the Prosciutto Pollo Salad combines the classic elements of Italian cuisine in a way that’s both traditional and inventive. This dish doesn’t merely serve as a starter; it holds its own as a complete meal. By bringing together succulent chicken and delicate Parma ham, this salad incorporates a harmonious blend of textures and flavours that make it unique to La Ballerina’s menu.
The Quality Ingredients – Freshness at the Forefront
The quality of ingredients is paramount to any Italian dish, and the Prosciutto Pollo Salad is no exception. At La Ballerina, we believe that each component should contribute something essential to the dish’s overall experience.
Chicken – Cooked to perfection, the chicken is tender and juicy, adding protein and substance to the salad. The chicken is seasoned subtly, allowing its natural flavour to shine while complementing the other ingredients.
Parma Ham – Known as prosciutto, this Italian cured ham is a celebrated ingredient in Italian cuisine. The ham used in our salad is sourced directly from Parma, Italy, and it undergoes a traditional curing process to develop its distinctive flavour. The salty and slightly sweet notes of Parma ham balance beautifully with the savoury chicken, bringing a touch of indulgence to the dish.
Fresh Salad Greens – A mix of greens like arugula, romaine, and baby spinach gives the salad a crisp and refreshing base. Each leaf contributes a subtle flavour and texture, from the peppery arugula to the tender baby spinach, making every bite as refreshing as it is satisfying.
Cherry Tomatoes – Adding a burst of colour and tanginess, cherry tomatoes provide a refreshing contrast to the saltiness of the Parma ham and the mildness of the chicken. They’re picked for ripeness and flavour, ensuring a juicy, slightly sweet taste.
Shaved Parmesan – No Italian salad would be complete without a touch of Parmesan cheese. The Prosciutto Pollo Salad includes a light sprinkle of shaved Parmesan, adding a salty and nutty flavour that enhances the overall profile of the dish without overwhelming it.
Homemade Dressing – Finally, the dressing is what ties the entire salad together. A balanced combination of extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and Italian herbs, the dressing is both zesty and rich, infusing every ingredient with a flavourful punch. Each component is carefully chosen and balanced, enhancing the salad’s flavour without overpowering the natural taste of the greens, chicken, and ham.
A Nutritional Powerhouse
The Prosciutto Pollo Salad is more than just a treat for the taste buds – it’s also a nourishing choice. Chicken provides lean protein, which is essential for muscle health and sustained energy levels. Parma ham, though indulgent, is used sparingly to add flavour without being overly calorific. Combined with fresh greens and tomatoes rich in vitamins and antioxidants, this salad is a balanced meal that offers protein, fibre, and essential nutrients.
How It’s Made: A Simple but Careful Preparation
Preparing this salad involves a careful balance of technique and timing. The chicken is seasoned lightly and then grilled to achieve a tender, juicy texture. The Parma ham is sliced thin to preserve its delicate texture, and the greens are dressed only when the salad is ready to be served, ensuring they remain crisp.
Grilling the Chicken: The chicken is grilled on medium heat to lock in moisture, achieving a slight char on the outside while remaining juicy inside.
Arranging the Ingredients: Fresh greens form the base of the salad, with cherry tomatoes interspersed for colour and taste. The chicken and Parma ham are layered on top, ensuring each forkful includes a balanced mix of ingredients.
Drizzling the Dressing: The dressing is applied just before serving, allowing it to coat every ingredient without making the greens soggy. This careful timing preserves the salad’s fresh, crisp texture.
Finishing Touches: A light sprinkling of shaved Parmesan completes the dish, providing an extra hint of saltiness and creaminess that ties all the flavours together.
Pairing Suggestions: Finding the Perfect Beverage
Italian cuisine is often complemented by the right wine or beverage, and the Prosciutto Pollo Salad is no different. For a truly memorable dining experience at La Ballerina, consider pairing this salad with one of the following options:
White Wine – A Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with this dish, as its crisp acidity balances the richness of the Parma ham and the dressing’s tanginess.
Sparkling Water with Lemon – For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a hint of lemon is refreshing and light, accentuating the salad’s fresh flavours.
Rosé Wine – The subtle fruitiness of a dry Rosé complements the salad without overpowering its delicate flavours, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or early dinner.
A Perfect Choice for Any Occasion
The Prosciutto Pollo Salad is an incredibly versatile dish that suits various dining occasions. Its light and refreshing nature makes it ideal for lunch, whether you’re stopping by during a day of shopping in Covent Garden or meeting friends for a casual meal. At dinner, it can serve as a lovely starter to share or a lighter option for those who prefer a meal that won’t leave them feeling too full.
Why Diners Love the Prosciutto Pollo Salad
Customer feedback at La Ballerina has consistently praised the Prosciutto Pollo Salad for its blend of quality ingredients and harmonious flavours. Many appreciate its balance between hearty and refreshing, and the Parma ham adds a unique touch that elevates the dish beyond a typical salad. Here are some reasons why this salad has quickly become a favourite:
Perfect Portion Size – The salad is generously portioned, making it satisfying without being overwhelming. Diners often comment on its ability to satisfy without the heaviness of a traditional main course.
Fresh and High-Quality Ingredients – The focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients means that every bite is bursting with flavour. Our customers appreciate the attention to detail in sourcing ingredients like Parma ham, which is not always found in other salads.
Healthy Yet Indulgent – This dish strikes a balance between health and indulgence. While it’s packed with nutritious ingredients, the addition of prosciutto and Parmesan gives it a touch of luxury that feels like a treat.
A Dish You Won’t Forget
With its careful balance of textures, flavours, and quality ingredients, the Prosciutto Pollo Salad at La Ballerina Italian Restaurant in Covent Garden is more than just a salad – it’s an experience. Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or simply looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, this dish is designed to please.
For anyone planning to visit Covent Garden and looking for an Italian dining experience, La Ballerina’s Prosciutto Pollo Salad is a must-try. With its blend of tender chicken, premium Parma ham, and fresh greens, this salad will not only leave you feeling nourished but will also provide a memorable taste of Italy in the heart of London.
Find out how to make a reservation and plan your visit to La Ballerina.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +44 20 7379 6659
