WARM CABBAGE, FENNEL AND PEAR SALAD

Warm Cabbage, Fennel and Pear Salad image

This crunchy salad makes an elegant first course or side, but it's hearty enough to be an entree when paired with a crusty artisan bread. We love it served warm. -Grace Voltolina, Westport, Connecticut

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch

Time 25m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

2 firm medium pears
1/4 cup brandy or Cognac, optional
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 large fennel bulb, halved, cored and thinly sliced
4 cups shredded or thinly sliced cabbage
1/4 cup water
3 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons honey or agave nectar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
3/4 cup crumbled or sliced Gorgonzola cheese
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted

Steps:

Peel and core pears; cut into 1/2-in. slices. If desired, toss with brandy. Set pears aside., In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add fennel; saute until crisp-tender, 2-3 minutes. Add cabbage; toss with fennel. Cook until both are tender, 2-3 minutes longer. Add pears, water, lemon juice, honey, salt and pepper to skillet, gently combining ingredients. Cook until liquid is evaporated, 6-8 minutes., Transfer to a serving bowl. Top with Gorgonzola cheese and toasted walnuts. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 391 calories, Fat 26g fat (7g saturated fat), Cholesterol 19mg cholesterol, Sodium 810mg sodium, Carbohydrate 28g carbohydrate (14g sugars, Fiber 8g fiber), Protein 9g protein.