Reinforcement salad: recipe for the famous Neapolitan side dish

Reinforcement salad: recipe for the famous Neapolitan side dish
  • Preparation time 30 Min.
  • Cooking time 10 Min.
  • Difficulty Easy
  • Portions 4
  • Calories per Serving 180
  • Type of plate Contour

Insalata di rinforzo is a classic of Neapolitan tradition, perfect not only for the Christmas season but also for other occasions thanks to its simplicity and versatility. Find out how to prepare it by following some useful tips.

Ingredients

  • 800gr fresh cauliflower
  • 100gr green olives
  • 100gr black olives
  • 50gr pickled pappacelles
  • 50gr salted capers
  • 60gr salted anchovies
  • 1 fresh chili pepper
  • 50ml extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons of white vinegar
  • q.b. salt
  • q.b. black pepper

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Instructions

1. Wash and cut the cauliflower into small florets. Then boil the cauliflower in salted water for 10-12 minutes, until tender; then drain and let cool.

2. Drain the olives, pickled papaccelle, capers, and anchovies.

3. In a salad bowl, combine the cooled cauliflower, olives, papaccelle, capers, and anchovies. Add red pepper, if desired, and season with salt and pepper.

4. Prepare the dressing by mixing the EVO oil and vinegar. Then pour it over the salad and toss gently to blend the flavors.

5. Cover the salad with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes so that the flavors bind together.

6. Before serving, add a drizzle of raw EVO oil.


Reinforcement salad: why this name?

The name "reinforcement salad" has a curious history and several interpretations. According to some, the dish was "reinforced" by adding leftover ingredients during the holidays. Others claim that the name comes from the strong taste given by vinegar and anchovies. According to tradition, this dish enriched Christmas Eve dinner, making it more substantial and nutritious.

Reinforcement salad: 4 tips not to go wrong

Reinforcement salad is a simple dish, but not to be underestimated! Here then are our 4 tips to make sure you don't go wrong:

  • Fresh ingredients: aim for quality produce, especially cauliflower, the real star of the dish.
  • Cooking cauliflower: cook for 10-12 minutes, until tender but still firm.
  • Rest in the refrigerator: prepare it in advance and let it rest; the flavors will blend better.
  • Dressing: use quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors without covering them up. For an extra touch, add chili and pepper.
  • Extra virgin olive oil: why it is important in this recipe
  • Extra-virgin olive oil is the secret ingredient in the creaminess of the salad and is essential for bringing together the flavors of the individual elements of the recipe.

Here are some tips to make the most of extra virgin olive oil:

  • Add it moderately to avoid an overly oily result.
  • Pour a drizzle of raw oil before serving for a finishing touch.
  • For our recipe, we chose Il Casolare Rustic Natural, which with its fruity taste enhances the dish without weighing it down. Buy it on our online shop.

Recommended pairings

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