The Perfect Side Salad

We all need a perfect little side salad, one that goes with anything from meat to fish to poultry and everything in between. This one does just that. The crunch of the walnuts and sweetness from the figs play against the saltiness of the Parmesan. I prefer to keep my dressings simple: some good olive oil, a splash of sherry vinegar, and, of course, salt and pepper.

Serves 4

• 1 head lettuce (choose the kind you like the most)
• 1 cup walnuts, toasted
• 4 fresh figs, cut into quarters
• 1–2 cups shaved Parmesan
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
•   Salt and freshly ground pepper

1. Tear the lettuce into pieces and divide among four plates.

2. Add some of the walnuts, figs, and Parmesan to each.

3. Drizzle each salad with a little of the olive oil and sherry vinegar. Season with salt and pepper and serve.