Mixed leaf salad with speck

SERVES 2–4 AS A SIDE (DEPENDING HOW HUNGRY YOU ARE

Here is a really simple but delicious salad that will accompany anything from fresh crab to a succulent steak.

3 handfuls (about 185 g/6½ oz) of freshly picked mixed lettuce leaves

1 handful red mustard cress (see note)

3 tablespoons pine nuts, lightly toasted

80 g (2¾ oz) fried, chopped speck or bacon lardons

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Put the lettuce, mustard cress, pine nuts and speck in a bowl and then drizzle in the olive oil and balsamic. Season with salt and pepper and serve. See what I mean about simple?

Red mustard cress has a lovely spicy and slightly hot flavour similar to mustard.