PARSNIP, PEAR AND PECAN SALAD

Parsnip, Pear and Pecan Salad image

I didn't try parsnips until I was well into my 40s, but now I can't get enough of them. This salad is so delicious, I defy your kids to turn their noses up at it. -Jodi Taffel, Altadena, California

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch

Time 50m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
2 cups peeled parsnips, julienned
1 cup D'Anjou pears, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup fresh shelled or frozen peas, thawed
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
1/2 cup pine nuts
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/3 cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons water

Steps:

Preheat oven to 400°. Drop Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoonfuls at a time, 1/2 in. apart onto a lightly greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. There should be 8 circles. Bake until cheese is melted and golden brown, 12-15 minutes. Cool completely., Combine next 8 ingredients. Mix thoroughly. Stir together mayonnaise and water. Add to salad; toss to coat. Serve with Parmesan crisps.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 254 calories, Fat 20g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 8mg cholesterol, Sodium 461mg sodium, Carbohydrate 14g carbohydrate (6g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 7g protein.