Anyone else melting today? Just walking up from the pond this morning after feeding the ducks had me breaking out in a sweat. And it was only 7am.
For muggy or scorching days alike, this Melon and Pancetta Salad is just perfect. It’s light, juicy and fragrant and surprisingly filling without causing you to need an afternoon nap.
I had it as a simple lunch but it would make a great starter for a dinner party too.
Do make sure you ask the deli counter if their Pancetta is OK to eat uncooked, and ask them to slice it as thin as they can. If you can only find the cubes of Pancetta (which really need frying first) try a Prosciutto or Bavarian ham instead. Mm Mmmm.
Melon and Pancetta Salad
Prep Time
10 mins
Total Time
10 mins
Servings: 2 as a main course, 4 as a starter
Ingredients
- 1 ripe melon. I prefer the fragrant orange fleshed cantaloupe but I imagine any sweet, perfectly ripe melon would work.
- 8 super thin slices of pancetta from the deli counter.
- A sprinkling of fresh thyme leaves. Baby basil leaves would also taste great or possibly finely chopped chives.
Instructions
- Skin and de-seed the melon. Using a potato peeler, slice the melon into long ribbons.
- Layer them on a plate with the slices of pancetta, curling them a little.
- Sprinkle with the thyme leaves.
- Sit down and enjoy, preferably with a glass of something chilled!
Sylvia @ Happiness is homemade says
It looks so good, love bright colour of melon :) It’s quite unusual combo.
Jane Sarchet says
It’s my favourite melon, so juicy!
Janie x
Bintu @ Recipes From A Pantry says
Simple, and fresh and a lovely photograph too.
Jane Sarchet says
Thank you sweetie :)
Janie x
Glamorous Glutton says
This looks colourful and tasty. It’s perfect for this hot sticky weather. I love pancetta uncooked, great idea Janie. GG x
Jane Sarchet says
Delish isn’t it GG. I was on a charcuterie tasting day today & was in absolute heaven :D
Janie x
Janice says
I’m in melon mode just now, they are so cheap and so sweet, I just love them. I would certainly enjoy this salad.
Kate - gluten free alchemist says
The melons are just delicious right now. We have been eating them almost continuously. Love the addition of pancetta!
Jane Sarchet says
It’s a good & tasty mix Kate! Highly recommended :)
Janie x