My Favorite Winter Salad

.First off, I haven't been blogging as much as I would like to lately.  My laptop died last week.  I've ordered a new one and I am anxiously waiting for it to be delivered.  In the meantime, I've set up my ancient Dell desktop (c. 2002, I believe) and using it has been painful!  I miss my laptop!

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And now, a recipe. . .
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For salad:

- Mixed Baby Greens (I buy Earthbound Farms organic lettuces)

- Walnuts, toasted

- Apple

- Red Onion

- Kalamata Olives

- Gorgonzola or Blue Cheese Crumbles

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For Dressing:

- Salt

- 1 Teaspoon Dijon Mustard

- 1 Tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar

- 1 Tablespoon White Wine Vinegar

- 2 to 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil

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First, toast the walnuts in an oven heated to 350 degrees for 5-6 minutes.  It's amazing how much the flavor of nuts is enhanced by toasting.

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Slice apple, kalamatas, and onion..

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I know that apples with olives and onions sounds weird, but somehow it works and tastes really yummy together.

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To make the dressing, first mix together the dijon and the vinegars in a small bowl.  Add a dash of salt.

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While wisking, slowly add the olive oil.  Keep wisking until all of the oil is mixed into the dijon / vinegar mixture.  When all mixed together the dressing will become thicker and almost creamy.

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Add toppings to lettuce.

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Drizzle with dressing and enjoy!

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This is a great winter salad when there are not a lot of fresh vegtables in season.

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* Variations: Somtimes I add a pear or dried cherries instead of an apple.  You may also substitute pecans or pine nuts for the walnuts.

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