Best Escarole Caesar Salad With Walnuts Recipes

ESCAROLE SALAD

Steps:

• Make lemon-basil oil:
• Mix 1/3 cup olive oil, a strip of lemon zest, 8 torn basil leaves and a pinch of salt; infuse 2 hours. Soak 1/2 thinly sliced red onion in water for 10 minutes to mellow the bite. When ready to serve, toss 1 head chopped escarole, the onion slices, 2 sliced celery stalks, 3/4 cup chopped green olives and a few tablespoons olive juice, 2 segmented lemons and 1/4 cup each toasted pine nuts and golden raisins in a serving bowl. Discard the zest from the infused oil, drizzle over the salad and season with salt and pepper.

GRILLED ESCAROLE CAESAR SALAD

Steps:

• For the Caesar vinaigrette: Combine the Garlic Confit, vinegar, Parmigiano-Reggiano, salt, pepper, anchovies, egg yolk and 2 tablespoons water in a blender, then blend on medium speed until smooth. With the motor running, slowly add the oil in a thin stream until it has been incorporated and the vinaigrette is creamy.
• Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. The vinaigrette will keep for up to 3 days.
• For the grilled escarole: Heat a grill for cooking over medium-high heat.
• Sprinkle escarole with salt and pepper. Put escarole cut-side down on grill and cook until grill marks form, about 1 minute. Remove from grill and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces. Transfer to a serving platter and toss with Caesar vinaigrette to taste.
• Place the garlic in a small saucepan and add enough oil to cover. Set the saucepan over low heat and cook until the garlic is soft and pale golden, 30 to 35 minutes. Let the garlic cool in the oil. Store garlic covered in the oil, adding more oil if necessary.

ESCAROLE-APPLE SALAD WITH WALNUT DRESSING

Steps:

• Puree 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 3 tablespoons chopped walnuts, 2 teaspoons dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon honey and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt in a blender until smooth. Slowly add 1/3 cup olive oil with the motor running; blend until creamy. Combine 1 torn head escarole, 1 thinly sliced fennel bulb, 2 thinly sliced apples and/or pears, 1 cup fresh parsley, ½ cup chopped walnuts and 1/4 cup minced chives in a large bowl. Add the dressing, season with salt and pepper and toss.