Spinach, Pear & Almond Salad


Caramelized Almonds:
2 tablespoons LAND O LAKESŪ Butter
1 cup slivered almonds
6 tablespoons sugar

Salad:
3/4 cup (3 ounces) crumbled blue cheese
2 pears (3 cups), cut into bite-sized pieces
1 (6-ounce) package pre-washed baby spinach or mixed lettuce greens

Dressing:
1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot*
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
1/8 teaspoon coarse ground pepper

Melt butter in 10-inch skillet until sizzling; add almonds and 4 tablespoons sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar melts and nuts are golden brown (4 to 5 minutes). (Watch closely to prevent burning.) Remove from heat; stir in remaining 2 tablespoons sugar. Quickly spread onto waxed paper; cool completely. Break clusters of nuts into pieces. Place all salad ingredients in large bowl; toss to combine. Combine all dressing ingredients in small bowl with wire whisk until well blended. Pour dressing over salad; toss to coat. Sprinkle with almonds. Serve immediately. Makes 6 servings.

*Substitute 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onion.

Tip: Instead of caramelizing the almonds, try toasting them. To toast almonds, place onto ungreased baking sheet. Bake in 325°F. oven, stirring halfway through, for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Recipe courtesy of Land O Lakes, Inc.