Mushroom Salad Faro

° Serves 4

I first made this salad when vacationing in a small town called Faro in the south of Portugal. It takes only a few minutes to combine all the ingredients for this salad, especially if you use the presliced, prewashed mushrooms that are available in most supermarkets. Do prepare it ahead so the mushrooms can marinate in the dressing. A terrific first course, it is also a great accompaniment for broiled or sautéed fish or meat.

• About 2½ cups diced or sliced (½-inch) cremini mushrooms (8 ounces)
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons safflower or corn oil
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 12 mint leaves, shredded
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

Stir all the ingredients together in a bowl and let marinate for 30 minutes. Serve immediately, or set aside until serving time. This salad can be made up to 1 day ahead and refrigerated, but it should be served at room temperature.