A Fresh, Flavorful Spanish Recipe
Looking for a vibrant, gourmet dish that brings together sweet, salty, and savory in perfect harmony? This Fig and Iberian Ham Salad Recipe is a beautiful blend of textures and Mediterranean flavors, making it ideal for everything from a light lunch to an elegant starter at your next dinner party.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through a delicious recipe using Iberian ham, and share a couple more salad variations featuring Spanish ham and figs. You’ll also get essential tips on ingredient selection, nutrition, and answers to common questions.
Whether you’re a home cook or a food enthusiast looking to impress guests, this guide will turn your kitchen into a slice of Spain.
Why Fig and Iberian Ham Make the Perfect Pair
The combination of sweet figs and savory Iberian ham is a time-tested pairing in Spanish cuisine. The delicate saltiness of acorn-fed Iberian ham (Jamón Ibérico de Bellota) contrasts beautifully with the soft, honey-like sweetness of ripe figs. Add fresh greens, creamy mozzarella, and a citrusy vinaigrette, and you’ve got a salad that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
This is not just another salad—it’s an experience.
Recipe: Fig and Iberian Ham Salad
Ingredients
- 6 ripe fresh figs (or brevas)
- 100% Iberian acorn-fed ham, thinly sliced
- A handful of mixed baby lettuce leaves
- 2 buffalo mozzarella balls
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ garlic clove, finely chopped
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: Finely mince the garlic and mix it with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Whisk well.
- Marinate the mozzarella: Add the mozzarella balls to the dressing and let them marinate for 15 minutes in the fridge, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare the figs: Wash the figs and quarter them. If they’re especially ripe, handle them gently to preserve their shape.
- Sear the Iberian ham (optional): For a crispy twist, quickly pan-sear the Iberian ham slices in a hot pan with a few drops of olive oil until just golden. Drain them on absorbent paper.
- Assemble the salad: Arrange the lettuce on a large plate or serving platter. Add fig quarters, torn mozzarella pieces, and Iberian ham. Drizzle with the leftover marinade.
- Serve immediately: Garnish with a pinch of cracked pepper or a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra zing.
Chef’s Tip: Use only high-quality Jamón Ibérico de Bellota, such as the varieties offered at 7Bellotas.com, where you can order authentic Spanish ham directly from Salamanca.
The Best Iberian Ham for Salad Recipes
Not all cured hams are created equal. For this and other recipe Iberian ham ideas, always choose acorn-fed Jamón Ibérico. It’s naturally rich, marbled with healthy fats, and aged to perfection. The result? A silky, complex flavor that melts in your mouth and elevates any dish.
At 7Bellotas, you’ll find premium Iberian ham available in whole pieces or hand-sliced, perfect for both everyday use and festive meals.
2 More Salad Recipes Using Spanish Ham and Figs
1. Warm Fig, Goat Cheese, and Iberian Ham Salad
Ingredients:
- Fresh figs
- Jamón Ibérico
- Soft goat cheese
- Arugula or spinach
- Honey and balsamic glaze
Instructions:
- Slice the figs and goat cheese.
- Wrap each fig slice in a small piece of Iberian ham.
- Sear lightly or serve cold atop arugula.
- Drizzle with a mix of honey and balsamic glaze.
This salad is ideal for autumn dinners and pairs beautifully with a dry Spanish white wine.
2. Spanish Ham, Fig, and Quinoa Bowl
Ingredients:
- Cooked quinoa (cooled)
- Diced figs
- Sliced Jamón Ibérico
- Baby kale or spinach
- Toasted almonds
- Lemon vinaigrette
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Dress lightly with lemon vinaigrette and toss.
- Top with Iberian ham slices just before serving.
This grain-based salad makes a nutritious and protein-rich lunch or light dinner, with the Iberian ham adding a gourmet touch.
Nutritional Benefits of Iberian Ham and Fig Salads
- Iberian Ham: Rich in oleic acid (healthy fat), protein, and essential minerals like iron and zinc.
- Figs: High in antioxidants, fiber, and natural sugars for sustained energy.
- Leafy Greens: Provide vitamins A, C, K, and folate.
- Mozzarella or Goat Cheese: Adds calcium and creaminess for flavor balance.
Together, these ingredients form a Mediterranean-style salad that supports heart health, digestion, and energy levels.
Serving Tips and Wine Pairings
- Serve fig and Iberian ham salad slightly chilled or room temperature.
- Ideal for a holiday starter, brunch centerpiece, or romantic dinner.
- Pair with Spanish rosé, Albariño, or light Tempranillo wines.
For the best flavor, serve the ham freshly sliced and never refrigerate it for long periods uncovered—it’s best consumed at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions for Fig and Iberian Ham Salad Recipes
Can I make fig and Iberian ham salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead, but assemble the salad just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Are figs and Iberian ham a traditional Spanish pairing?
Yes, especially in late summer and early fall when figs are in season.
What’s the best cut of Iberian ham for salads?
Thin slices from the maza (main muscle) of acorn-fed Iberian ham are ideal for salads.
Can I substitute dried figs?
Yes, but rehydrate them slightly or pair with a tangy dressing to balance the sweetness.
Is this salad healthy?
Absolutely—it’s rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats with no processed ingredients.
Where can I buy real Iberian ham online?
Visit 7Bellotas.com to find 100% acorn-fed Iberian ham from Salamanca, available in convenient hand-sliced packs.
What dressing goes best with fig and ham salads?
Citrus-based dressings with lemon, olive oil, or even balsamic work wonderfully.
Can I add nuts or seeds?
Yes! Walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds add great crunch and nutrition.
Do I need to cook the ham?
No—Iberian ham is dry-cured and ready to eat, though light searing can add a crispy twist.
What’s the difference between Jamón Serrano and Jamón Ibérico?
Jamón Serrano is from white pigs and has a milder flavor, while Jamón Ibérico comes from the native Iberian breed and is richer, fattier, and more complex.
Conclusion: A Gourmet Twist on Salad with a Taste of Spain
There’s nothing ordinary about this Fig and Iberian Ham Salad Recipe. With every bite, you’ll taste the care that goes into Spain’s most iconic cured meat, paired beautifully with nature’s sweetest fruit.
Whether you’re preparing a summer lunch, impressing holiday guests, or simply indulging in a gourmet moment, this salad delivers both taste and elegance. For authentic acorn-fed Iberian ham, hand-cut and delivered to your door, explore the curated selections at 7Bellotas.com.
Elevate your salads. Celebrate Spanish flavors. Start with Iberian ham.