Best My Aunts Festive Salad Recipes

RAFFY'S HOLIDAY SALAD

Steps:

• Whisk 1/4 cup of the lemon juice with the salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Gradually whisk in the oil to blend. Season the dressing with more salt and pepper as needed. (The dressing can be made 8 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Return to room temperature and re-whisk before using.)
• Toss the endive and apples with 2 tablespoons of the lemon juice in a large bowl to coat (the lemon juice will prevent the endive and apples from browning). Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice over the avocado. Add the avocado, corn and cheese to the endive mixture. Gently toss the salad with enough dressing to coat. Season the salad with more salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle the pomegranate seeds over the salad if desired and serve immediately.

BIG FESTIVE SALAD

Steps:

• For the candied nuts: In a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, toast the pistachios and hazelnuts until fragrant, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the brown sugar, salt, vanilla and 1 tablespoon water directly to the pan with the nuts and stir to coat them. Cook until the sugar has dissolved, about 1 additional minute. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow to cool, 12 to 15 minutes.
• For the dressing: Combine the olive oil, vinegar, maple syrup, mustard, salt and pepper in a mason jar. Secure the lid and shake to combine. Set aside.
• For the salad: Spread the arugula, kale and spinach over a large round platter, leaving space in the center of the platter (it should look like a holiday wreath). Top the greens with the radicchio. Arrange the mandarin segments over the greens. Sprinkle with the pomegranate seeds, cranberries, blueberries and cooled candied nuts.
• Lastly, sprinkle with the Parmesan, creating the look of snow. Shake the dressing one more time and pour it into a serving bowl. Place the bowl in the center of the platter and serve.

CONTEST-WINNING FESTIVE TOSSED SALAD

Steps:

• For dressing, place first five ingredients in a blender; cover and process until blended. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream. Add poppy seeds; pulse just until combined. , To serve, place remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Toss with dressing.