:: SIMPLE ANTIPASTO SALAD

What is it with caterers who seem to think the only solution to feeding a large amount of people means sticking everything in a deep fat fryer?  Recently I have been to more than 3 events which have resorted to battered chicken nuggets, onion rings, and cocktail sausages!  Now I'm not going to completely condemn them as I did have a quick nibble, as most people do, but I would far rather some simple, fresh finger food with healthy ingredients which don't rely on a vat of boiling fat to make them look pretty!

This little antipasto salad is my simple solution to any pre dinner nibbles.  Three tasty ingredients combined to make a delicious little starter which can be thrown together in no time at all.  Best of all it looks so damn good your guests will think you went to a whole lot of bother!  To be honest this is more of a sit down affair, but if you did want to transform this dish into proper finger food, simply toast some small slices of bread, spread with a little pesto, wrap a few rocket leaves, wafers of parmesan cheese and crushed olives in some parma ham slices, place on the pesto toast and hold together with a cocktail stick.

Simple Antipasto Salad
This is a great base for any salad so feel free to throw in some lovely extras if you so wish.  Things like toasted pine nuts, garlic croutons, and sun dried tomatoes would all work great in this.  If you buy olives unpitted, simply crush them with the back of a knife and remove the stone with your fingers.

3 large handfuls of rocket leaves. (Arugula)
Half of a 100g jar of green olives (pitted).
1 packet of parma ham slices.
1 Large handful of wafer thin parmesan cheese slices.
3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar.
A small pinch of ground black pepper.

The method for this one is so easy-  Simply mix together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl.  Add the remaining ingredients and toss gently.  Tumble the salad onto a large serving dish and serve.  Make sure to provide lots of crusty bread to eat alongside and enjoy!