My parents stayed with me at a friend’s beautiful ranch for the holidays, and I made everyone this impressive salad. It became every night’s first course!
—KRISTIN KOSSAK BOZEMAN, MT
START TO FINISH: 25 MIN. • MAKES: 6 SERVINGS
2/3 cup pecan halves
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, divided
Dash cayenne pepper
Dash ground cinnamon
3 tablespoons sugar, divided
1 package (5 ounces) spring mix salad greens
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 medium pear, thinly sliced
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1. In a large heavy skillet, cook the pecans, 2 tablespoons vinegar, cayenne and cinnamon over medium heat until nuts are toasted, about 4 minutes. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon sugar. Cook and stir for 2-4 minutes or until sugar is melted. Spread pecans on foil to cool.
2. Place salad greens in a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk oil, mustard, salt and remaining vinegar and sugar; drizzle over greens and toss to coat. Arrange the greens, pear slices and pecans on six salad plates. Sprinkle with cheese.