Swiss Cheese, Ham and Pear Salad With Mustard-Caraway Vinaigrette

Cut slices of Swiss cheese and ham into 1-inch squares. Slice each pear into 6 wedges, then slice each wedge lengthwise into four slices. Cut all slices in half to form smaller wedges.

In a large salad bowl, toss together Swiss cheese, ham and pears, mixing well. Mix in pepper to taste.

For the dressing, place the mustard in a separate mixing bowl. Whisk in white wine vinegar in a thin stream; this should slightly thin out the mustard and make it creamier. Whisk in vegetable oil in a thin stream; the dressing should be thick and creamy. Slowly add the water, between 4-8 teaspoons, to thin the dressing out; be careful not to add too much, or the dressing might separate. Add caraway seeds and parsley. Mix well. Add the dressing to the salad, mixing thoroughly. Season to taste with salt.