ROMAINE SALAD WITH PEAR, SMOKED BLUE CHEESE, AND CANDIED PECANS

Romaine Salad with Pear, Smoked Blue Cheese, and Candied Pecans image

Provided by Martina McBride

Time 35m

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 14

1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup pecan halves
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 romaine hearts, torn (about 6 cups)
2 ripe pears, thinly sliced or chopped (about 3/4 cup)
5 ounces smoked blue cheese, crumbled
1 avocado, diced
4 thinly sliced green onions (about 1/2 cup)

Steps:

Cook the sugar and pecans in a small skillet over medium, 5 to 7 minutes or until the sugar has caramelized. Spread the pecans in a single layer on lightly greased wax paper on a large baking sheet. Let them cool completely and then chop into 1/2-inch pieces.
Whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, Dijon, garlic, salt, sugar, and pepper in a small bowl.
Layer the lettuce, pears, cheese, avocado, and green onions on a large serving platter. Drizzle with the desired amount of dressing, and top with the pecans.