Fresh Spring Mix Salad loaded with leafy Artisan red and green lettuce, crunchy Persian cucumbers, fresh blueberries, and candied walnuts dressed in simple but delicious vinaigrette.
4tablespoonorange muscat champagne vinegar (or any of the following acids: white wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, orange muscat champagne vinegar, red wine vinegar)
½teaspoonkosher salt(more to taste)
Candied Walnuts
¾cupwalnuts
2tablespoonbrown sugar
2tablespoonclarified butter(or regular butter)
Instructions
Add vinegar and kosher salt to a small mixing bowl and slowly whisk in olive oil until emulsified. Set aside.
Place saute pan over medium heat. Add butter and sugar to pan and allow butter to melt. Add walnuts to pan and toss to coat for 3 to 4 minutes. Set aside.
Wash and slice Persian cucumbers about ¼ inch thick. Set aside.
Place heads of lettuce on cutting board and chop using a sharp knife. Add chopped lettuce in the colander of a salad spinner and wash lettuce. Then, use the salad spinner to dry lettuce thoroughly.
Add the chopped lettuce to a salad bowl or platter. Top with cucumbers, blueberries, and candied walnuts and lightly drizzle with vinaigrette.
Store remaining vinaigrette in an airtight container and place in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Notes
When picking lettuce, use at least 2 different types of lettuces and make sure the lettuce is vibrant and crisp.
You can also use a spring mix bag of salad.
When picking blueberries, examine the package to make sure you do not find any that are mildewed, soft or mushy.
Feel free to use walnuts or pecans whichever one you choose I highly suggest that at the bare minimum you toast them for a few minutes if you prefer not having them candied.
Make sure when chopping your lettuce, it's the perfect size... not too big.
Vinaigrette is really easy to make from scratch all you need to do is remember the acid to oil ratio that you like (I use 1 part acid to 2 parts oil ratio).
One you make your base vinaigrette, it can be enhanced with minced garlic, finely chopped shallots, chopped herbs and even a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a little sweetness.
You can also top with your favorite cooked protein such as grilled or seared chicken or sliced flank steak and make it am actual meal rather than a side.