Nutty Pear Salad

Company worthy.

• Ready In: 18 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 2⁄3 cup pecans or 2⁄3 cup walnuts
• 4  tablespoons sugar, divided
• 2  tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1  teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1  garlic clove, minced
• 3 1⁄2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
•  salt and pepper
• 1 (6 ounce) bag mixed baby lettuces and spring greens or 1  head bibb lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
• 2  red pears, peeled, cored and sliced
• 3⁄4 cup  crumbled gorgonzola or 3⁄4 cup blue cheese
• 1  avocado, pitted peeled and sliced
• 1⁄4 cup  thinly sliced green onion

Directions

1. In a skillet over medium heat combine pecans and 3 tablespoons sugar. Cook and stir until the sugar melts and caramelizes about 3-4 minutes. Carefully transfer coated pecans to a sheet of wax paper or foil. Let cool; break into pieces.
2. Meanwhile, for the dressing, in a small bowl whisk together vinegar, mustard, garlic and remaining 1 tablespoon sugar. Slowly whisk in oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a large serving bowl layer lettuce, pears, blue cheese, avocado and green onions. Add dressing; toss to coat. Sprinkle with cooled pecans and serve.