Saturday, March 6, 2010

Roasted Carrot Salad with Sautéed Apple Vinaigrette



This is a delicious warm salad with a unique flavor combination: sweet roasted carrots; fresh, crisp spinach; and a fresh apple-balsamic vinaigrette.  The balsamic-apple vinaigrette is a vibrant, nutritious, and unique dressing or topping.


Ingredients

*5-7 large carrots, peeled and chopped on a diagonal
*4 Tbs. olive oil
*4 cloves garlic, crushed
*2/3 cup red onion, chopped
*4 cups spinach, chopped
*1 apple (any variety), chopped (skin and all!)
*1/2 cup raisins
*3 Tbs. balsamic vinegar
*1 Tbs. lemon juice
*1/3 cup goat cheese, crumbled
*1/8 tsp. nutmeg
*salt and pepper
*1/3 cup toasted, slivered almonds

Directions

1.     Preheat oven to 425 degrees.  Spread chopped carrots on a baking sheet and toss with 2 Tbs. olive oil, ½ the chopped onion, ½ the crushed garlic, salt, and pepper.  Roast for 20-30 minutes, until tender and golden.

2.     For the warm apple dressing, add the remaining 2 Tbs. olive oil to a sauté pan.  Over medium-high heat, add the remaining chopped onion and garlic.  Sauté for 2-3 minutes until onions are translucent and starting to brown.  Add the chopped apple, nutmeg, and lemon juice.  Season with salt and pepper.  Transfer the warm mixture to a food processor; add the balsamic vinegar and blend until smooth.

3.     Chop spinach and place in a large bowl.  Add the carrots, raisins, goat cheese, and enough of the apple vinaigrette to coat the salad.  Season with additional salt and pepper.  Top with toasted, slivered almonds.

Serving Tips:
*Add an additional splash of balsamic is desired.
*To add a protein-punch, add some cooked lentils!

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Around the Table

Around the Table
We love good food, get excited for Market Basket & Trader Joe's, serve salad out of a pasta pot, marvel in food photography, and love to laugh. You're always welcome at our table. Click on this photo to view our "People Around the Table" album.