SALAD WITH PROSCIUTTO, CARAMELIZED PEARS, & WALNUTS

Salad with Prosciutto, Caramelized Pears, & Walnuts image

Provided by Amanda Smith @Smithal70

Number Of Ingredients 15

2 cup(s) orange juice
2 tablespoon(s) red wine vinegar
2 tablespoon(s) red onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon(s) white sugar
1 tablespoon(s) dry white wine
- salt, to taste
- fresh ground black pepper, to taste
3/4 cup(s) olive oil, extra virgin
1 tablespoon(s) salted butter
2 - green anjou pears, peeled, cored, and cut into wedges
1 cup(s) walnut halves
1/2 cup(s) white sugar
1/4 cup(s) water
1/4 pound(s) prosciutto, cut into thin strips
2 - romaine lettuce hearts, rinsed and torn

Steps:

Heat the orange juice over medium-high heat in a medium saucepan, whisking often, until it is reduced by 1/4.
Add to blender, along with the vinegar, onion, 1 cup sugar, wine, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
Then, while blending on a low speed, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil to thicken the dressing.
Chill until ready to use.
Melt the salted butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Saute the pears and nuts in butter for 3 minutes.
Add 1/2 cup sugar and water and cook, stirring constantly, until golden brown and caramelized.
Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Combine the prosciutto, lettuce and the pear and walnut mixture in a medium bowl.
Add the pre-made vinaigrette and toss to coat.