Salumi with Peaches and Watercress

Salumi refers to all dry-cured Italian-style meats and sausages. Great chefs such as Tom Colicchio, Lidia Bastianich, Mario Batali, and Paul Bertolli are introducing them to a new generation of Americans, who may not realize what an incredible variety is available. Thanks to these chefs for bringing this artisan tradition back to the culinary fore. What an inspiration! One summer when I traveled in Italy, I was served salumi with peaches just about everywhere I went and although it was a combination I had never before tried, it made perfect and delicious sense and stayed with me after I returned to Chicago.
Recipe information
Yield
serves 4
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
1. On a serving platter, arrange the salumi and pepperoni slices in an overlapping pattern.
Step 2
2. Without peeling the peaches, remove the pits, slice the fruit into thin wedges, and put in a bowl. Add the olive oil, orange and lemon juice, watercress, mint, and basil and toss gently.Season to taste with salt and pepper and toss again.
Step 3
3. Spoon the salad next to the salumi. Drizzle both the salumi and salad with olive oil, garnish with the cheese, and serve.