RECIPE # 4639 - NONNA'S BLT SUMMER SALAD - Monday, May 16, 2011 - NewsChannel5.com | Nashville News, Weather & Sports

DANNY MAGGIPINTO / CAFFE NONNA

Salad:

1/2c. Pancetta Bits (crispy diced Italian bacon)

1 Red Bell Pepper (grilled/cut into strips)

1/2c. English Cucumber (sliced thin half-moon shape)

4-5 Tomatoes (Heirloom if possible)(wedge cut)(add juices to dressing)

1/4c. Red Onion (sliced thin)

1/4c. Calamata Olives (pitted)

2 average handfuls of baby lettuce (your choice)

1/2c. Israeli Cous Cous

1/4c. Pistachios (toasted)

Kosher Salt and Cracked Black Pepper to taste

Parmesan Shavings

Grilled Italian Bread for sopping up the juices

 Dressing: 

1/3c. Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1/3c. Lemon Juice

1 tsp. Garlic (Minced)

pinch of crushed red pepper

1 Tbsp. Oregano (Fresh)

Kosher salt and cracked black pepper

 Prep all of the ingredients and set aside.

1. In a large serving bowl, add the first nine ingredients.
2. Drizzle the dressing around the sides of the bowl and lightly toss to coat.
3. Season with Kosher salt and cracked black pepper.
4. Plate equal portions on four - six dinner plates.
5. Garnish with parmesan shavings. 

Serves 4 - 6