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It is quite rare to observe a ‘national day’ for something as simple as cured meat. But that’s what seemed to have happened in the case of salami. A kind of fermented sausage, salami is widely available across the world in different forms. It’s traditionally made from beef or pork, but there are chicken versions of salami too. This cured meat was recognised by the Salami Appreciation Society in the US. And in 2006, the day of September 7 was declared as the ‘National Salami Day’.
While the existence of salami is known since ancient times when the Romans and Greeks would ferment meat so that it could be stored for days, the word salami is actually derived from the Italian word, meaning salt. There are different flavourings and ways of eating this cold cut that has emerged in today’s time. From pizzas to burgers and sandwiches, there’s nothing a salami can’t fix.
If you too are planning to celebrate the day, here are some delectable recipes that you can try.
1. Salami Pasta Salad
There’s salad, then there’s pasta, and on top of that you have salami. Now, do you really need anything else? Take your favourite pasta, be it penne or fusilli, and toss with basil, oregano, garlic, and green onions. Add cubed salami to it. Throw in grated parmesan with some parsley along with it. Drizzle olive oil and cider vinegar. Mix it all up and enjoy.
2. Grilled Salami Sandwich
A perfect treat for breakfast, lunch and dinner, a grilled sandwich can never go wrong in any of the meals. It is quick and easy to make and requires minimum ingredients. Packed inside a baguette, you’ll find bell peppers and onions sandwiched inside it, along with provolone cheese and deli hard salami. Drizzle some Italian dressing and olive oil and you are good to go.
3. Italian Salami Pizza
Pizza can be topped with a variety of veggies and meats and salami works wonders with it. The crusty base with loads of pizza sauce, flavoured with garlic and herbs, and cheese melted into the slices of salami placed on top taste heavenly. Add some bocconcini, basil leaves and olive wedges and you are bound to enjoy this pizza to the core.
4. Salami Tartlets
Bite-sized tarts that serve as great appetisers, the tartlets are stuffed with a meaty salami filling. The puff pastry sheets are layered, stuffed with chopped salami, tomato paste, spring onions, and lightly-beaten eggs. Bake it until it turns golden brown and crusty. Take it out and top with some dried basil leaves.
5. Chicken Salami Noodles
This is a quick and easy hack to add protein to your noodle dish without the hassle of marinating and deep-frying chicken. All you need to do is boil the noodles, toss them in soy sauce and vinegar. Add salt, pepper and other preferable sauces. Throw in chopped veggies like bell peppers and spring onions. Finally, add in chopped salami bits and enjoy.
