Insalata di Pera e Pecorino (Pear and Pecorino Cheese Salad)

Serves 4

This non-traditional Italian salad was inspired by an old Italian saying: “Don’t tell the farmer how good the cheese is with the pears.” 
This refers to Pecorino cheese. So, why not combine them in this simple salad?

Ingredients

4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons white wine vinegar

Salt, to taste

2 cups washed and dried arugula leaves

4 ripe Bosc pears, peeled, cored and cut into ½-inch-thick slices

1/4 pound Pecorino cheese with black peppercorns, cut into thin slices

1/4 cup golden raisins

1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

Directions

1. Whisk the olive oil, vinegar and salt in a small bowl and set aside.

2. Place the arugula in a salad bowl and add the pear slices. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently. Add the cheese and toss again. Sprinkle on the raisins and pine nuts.