Escarole and Mandarin Salad with Rosemary Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
When people tell us they don't believe in winter salads, we tell them to check out this recipe made with under-appreciated escarole, an abundance of citrus, and an eat-it-off-the-spoon good citrus honey rosemary dressing.
2headsescarole lettuceor butter lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
1handfultoasted sliced almondsfor garnish
Instructions
Make The Rosemary Balsamic Vinaigrette: Coarsely crush or chop rosemary and place in a small saucepan. Add honey and bring to a boil over medium heat. Remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, whisk olive oil, vinegar, orange juice, and salt in a large bowl until combined.Discard the rosemary and add the honey to the olive oil mixture, whisk to combine, then season to taste with salt and pepper. TIP: Dressing can be made up to 4 days ahead of time.
Broil The Mandarins Meanwhile, heat the oven to broil and arrange a rack 6 inches from the broiler. Place the halved mandarins on a parchment-lined rimmed sheet and top with a sprinkle of sugar (this isn't to make them sweeter but to help them brown). Place mandarins under the broiler and, watching carefully, broil until blistered and browned.
Serve The Salad: To serve, add the escarole to the dressing and toss well to coat. Serve the salad topped with oranges and sprinkled with almonds. Have your guests squeeze the mandarins over the top of their salad or eat the fruit from the skin directly.