Dried Apple and Pecan Spinach Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette
This recipe is tweaked from the Costco magazine. From the mailbox to the recycle bin, I quickly peruse catalogs for hidden gems.
QUANTITY AND INGREDIENTS
SALAD
5-6 cups spinach and arugula mix or other hearty green mix
1 cup of crispy dried apples (or substitute freshly sliced apples or pears)
1/2 cup toasted and roughly chopped pecans (toast for 2 minutes in the toaster oven or bake in preheated oven at 350 for 5 minutes, let cool, and then chop)
1/3 cup chopped dried Bing cherries
1 large shallot, thinly sliced, soaked in cool water and drained
freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE
3/8 cup olive oil
3/8 cup balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and more to taste
2 medium cloves fresh garlic, roughly chopped
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1-2 Tbsp filtered water to thin, as needed
SPECIAL EQUIPMENT
Countertop blender (prefer Ninja)
PREPARE YOUR MIS EN PLACE
1. Read and reread the recipe. Divide tasks amongst team members.
2. Gather all the ingredients and necessary equipment.
PREPARING THE DRESSING
1. Add all vinaigrette ingredients except the water and oil to the blender, and blend until completely smooth.
2. Gradually add the olive oil. It is important to slowly add the oil to create an emulsion. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper.
3. Add water to achieve desired consistency. The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
PREPARING THE SALAD
1. Chill plates. At the time of serving, take a handful of greens and top with fruits, shallots, and nuts. Drizzle with dressing. Sprinkle with freshly ground pepper.
CULINARY TIPS
1. Dressing the salad at the last minute avoids wilting of the salad greens. If the salad is assembled en masse, the smaller elements of the salad such as the cherries and nuts, will fall to the bottom.
2. A decent quality balsamic is in order. Costco brand would work just fine.
3. To make a more complete meal, add cheese (goat, shaved Parmesan) and/or a side of prepared chicken, shrimp, or salmon.
