bohemianwanderer – Start by preparing the dressing, as it needs time to infuse and develop flavor. In a small bowl, combine the zest and juice of half an orange, along with 2-3 star anise pods. Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of Chardonnay vinegar or any high-quality white vinegar. To finish the dressing, whisk in 60ml (¼ cup) of extra-virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper.
Read More : Realme GT 8 Pro Launch Confirmed in India This November
Whisk everything together with a fork and taste the dressing for seasoning. Adjust if needed, then allow the dressing to sit and infuse. For the best results, let it sit overnight, but a minimum of 15 minutes will work if you’re short on time. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld and deepen, creating a perfectly balanced dressing. The rich citrusy notes from the orange, combined with the aromatic star anise, add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries. This complex, slightly spiced flavor profile will enhance the salad and elevate its overall taste.
Preparing the Strawberry and Onion Salad
While the dressing infuses, prepare the salad ingredients. Take 500g of strawberries, remove the tops, and cut them into quarters. Add them to a separate bowl along with ½ of a red onion, halved lengthways and finely sliced. Drizzle the mixture with 1 teaspoon of maple syrup, ¼ teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of salt flakes. Stir everything together and let the strawberries and onions macerate for at least 15 minutes.
After the macerating process, it’s time to assemble the dish. Begin by selecting a large serving platter with a lip to catch any juices. Spread 600g of stracciatella across the base of the platter, creating a smooth and creamy layer. Then, scatter the macerated strawberries and onions over the top of the stracciatella.
Read More : Easy Upside-Down Pissaladière Tarts for a Savory Treat
To finish the salad, drizzle the infused orange and star anise dressing generously over the top. Sprinkle freshly packed basil leaves and crushed pistachios for added texture and flavor. Finally, give it a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil just before serving for a final touch of richness.
This dish offers a delightful balance of creamy, sweet, and savory elements. The orange and star anise dressing adds a unique depth of flavor that perfectly complements the fresh strawberries and creamy stracciatella. Whether served as a light main course or a refreshing side dish, this salad is sure to impress your guests.
