Sicilian orange salad

Sicilian Orange Salad

The Sicilian Orange Salad, also known as Insalata di arance, is a traditional dish from the Sicily region of Italy. This salad is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, typically made with fresh oranges, onions, olives, and olive oil.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of a Sicilian Orange Salad are:

• Oranges: The star ingredient of the salad, usually blood oranges are used, but any variety can be used depending on personal preference and availability.
• Onions: Red onions are typically used for their mild flavor and vibrant color.
• Olives: Black or green olives add a savory touch to the salad.
• Olive oil: A drizzle of olive oil adds richness and helps to balance the flavors.
• Salt and pepper: These are used to season the salad.

Preparation

The preparation of a Sicilian Orange Salad is simple and straightforward. Here are the steps:

1. Peel the oranges and cut them into thin slices.
2. Thinly slice the onions.
3. Pit the olives if they are not already pitted.
4. Arrange the orange slices on a plate, top with the onion slices and olives.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve immediately.

Variations

There are several variations of the Sicilian Orange Salad. Some recipes include additional ingredients like fennel, mint, parsley, or chili flakes. Others might replace the olive oil with a vinaigrette made from vinegar, honey, and mustard.

Serving Suggestions

Sicilian Orange Salad is typically served as a starter or a side dish. It pairs well with grilled fish, roasted meats, or pasta dishes. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing meal.

See Also

• Italian cuisine
• Sicilian cuisine
• Salad
• Mediterranean diet

References

• The Silver Spoon, Phaidon Press
• Sicily: The Cookbook, Melissa Muller

External Links

• BBC Food - Sicilian Orange Salad
• Food Network - Sicilian Orange Salad