SPINACH SALAD W/ ROASTED GARLIC AND BACON DRESSING

Spinach Salad W/ Roasted Garlic And Bacon Dressing image

Provided by Vicki Butts (lazyme)

Time 55m

Number Of Ingredients 13

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1/4 c olive oil
3 Tbsp olive oil
12 large garlic cloves, peeled
4 slice bacon, chopped
1/4 c sherry vinegar
2 Tbsp shallot, minced
1 Tbsp djon mustard
1 1/2 tsp honey
1 1/2 tsp light molasses
1 1/2 tsp fresh tarragon, or 3/4 tsp dried, chopped
1 1/2 c baby spinach leaves (6 ounces)
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1 c blue cheese, crumbled

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375.
2. Combine 1/4 cup oil and garlic in small baking dish.
3. Cover with foil; bake until garlic is very tender, about 35 minutes.
4. Using slotted spoon, transfer garlic to work surface and finely chop.
5. Transfer garlic to medium bowl. Reserve roasted garlic oil.
6. Cook bacon in large skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 4 minutes.
7. Using slotted spoon, transfer bacon to paper towels.
8. Pour drippings into medium bowl.
9. Add vinegar, shallot, mustard, honey, molasses and tarragon and whisk to blend.
10. Add roasted garlic, garlic oil, bacon and remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil and whisk to blend well.
11. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.
12. Place spinach, sliced onion and blue cheese in large bowl.
13. Toss with enough dressing to coat.
14. Serve.