Browsed by
Tag: Main Dish Salad

BLT Rice Bowl

BLT Rice Bowl

BLT Rice Bowl

 

2 C. rice

1/2 lbs bacon, sliced into 10 cm wide pieces

1 small head of lettuce, thinly sliced such as Romain Lettuce or Green Leaf

1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

 

1 small ripe avocado

1 C. roughly chopped cilantro

1/4 C. fresh lime juice from 3-4 limes

1/4 C. olive oil

1/2 tsp cumin

1/4 tsp chili powder

1/4 tsp salt

 

Prepare rice as per package instructions. Set aside. Cook bacon in a medium skillet over medium-high heat until browned and crispy, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and drain on paper towel. Set aside. Dressing: Place avocado, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, and salt in a blender. Mix on high until smooth. Assembly:  Serve rice with bacon, lettuce, tomatoes and the dressing on the side.

BLT Chicken-Avocado Salad

BLT Chicken-Avocado Salad

BLT Chicken-Avocado Salad

 

4 slices bacon

1 (5-oz) pkg baby spinach-spring mix blend

2 Roma tomatoes, cut into wedges

⅓ C. crumbled blue cheese

⅓ C. chopped pecans

1 avocado, sliced

2½ C. shredded rotisserie chicken

½ C. balsamic vinaigrette

 

Cook bacon in a skillet 6 to 8 minutes or until crisp. Drain and cool. Crumble bacon.

Arrange greens, tomatoes, cheese, nuts, avocado, bacon, and chicken on a large platter. Drizzle with dressing

Wedge Salad with Steak Tips

Wedge Salad with Steak Tips

Wedge Salad with Steak Tips

 

4 slices bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

3/4 cup plain yogurt

3 ounces Stilton cheese, crumbled (1/4 cup), divided

1 tsp. red wine vinegar

1 garlic clove, minced

3/4 tsp. table salt, divided

1/2 tsp. pepper, divided

1 ½ pounds sirloin steak tips, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

1 head iceberg lettuce (9 ounces), cored and cut into 8 wedges

10 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved

2 T. minced fresh chives

 

Cook bacon in 12-inch skillet over medium heat until crispy, 5 to 7 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer bacon to paper towel-lined plate and remove skillet from heat (do not wipe out skillet). Whisk yogurt, 1/2 cup Stilton, vinegar, garlic, 1/4 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. pepper in bowl until combined. Pat steak dry with paper towels and sprinkle with remaining 1/2 tsp. salt and remaining 1/4 tsp. pepper. Heat bacon fat in skillet over medium-high heat until just smoking. Add steak and cook until well browned on all sides and meat registers 125 degrees (for medium-rare), about 7 minutes. Transfer to plate, tent with aluminum foil, and let rest. Arrange lettuce wedges and steak tips on individual serving plates and drizzle with dressing. Top with tomatoes, bacon, and remaining l/4 cup Stilton. Sprinkle with chives and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve.

Asian Chicken and Cellophane Noodle Salad

Asian Chicken and Cellophane Noodle Salad

Asian Chicken and Cellophane Noodle Salad

Cellophane noodles, also known as glass noodles, are thin, transparent Asian noodles usually made from mung bean starch and water. They’re great in soups and stir-fries, but we also love them as an interesting base of a chilled, hearty, summery dinner salad.

 

8 ounces cellophane noodles

3 carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch-long matchsticks

2 English cucumbers, peeled and cut into 2-inch-long matchsticks

6 T. rice vinegar, divided

1/3 cup soy sauce

2 T. vegetable oil

1 T. toasted sesame oil

1 T. grated fresh ginger

1 garlic clove, minced

2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken

 

Bring 4 quarts water to boil in large pot. Add noodles and cook until tender. Drain, rinse with cold water, and drain again to remove as much water as possible. Meanwhile, toss carrots and cucumbers with 2 T. vinegar in large bowl; set aside to marinate for 10 minutes. Whisk soy sauce, remaining 1/4 cup vinegar, vegetable oil, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic together in bowl. Drain and discard vinegar from marinating vegetables. Add noodles, chicken, and dressing to bowl with vegetables and toss to thoroughly combine. Serve.

Homemade Taco Bowls

Homemade Taco Bowls

Homemade Taco Bowls

 

1 1/2 lbs. lean ground beef

 

1 T. chili powder

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 tsp. onion powder

1/4 tsp. oregano

1/2 tsp. paprika

1 1/2 tsp. cumin

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

 

1 15 oz. can black beans drained and rinsed

1 15 oz. can whole corn drained

pico de gallo garnish

avocado garnish

cheddar cheese grated

cilantro garnish

brown rice approx. 1 1/2 cups per serving

 

Brown ground beef in a large skillet.  Mix together seasonings and sprinkle over meat.  Stir to incorporate.  Simmer for 3-5 minutes. Add cooked rice to individual serving bowl.

Top with ground beef mixture.  Add toppings – pico, avocado, cheese, corn, black beans, and cilantro.

Salami & Pasta Salad

Salami & Pasta Salad

Salami & Pasta Salad (instant pot)

 

4 cups elbow macaroni

8 cups water

4 large eggs, hard-boiled

8 oz. salami, thinly sliced

1 small cucumber, peeled, cut in half and sliced

2 cups chopped arugula

2 cups spinach

â…“ cup diced red onion

10 large stuffed green olives, sliced in half

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 lemon, cut into wedges

½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

 

Add elbow macaroni and 8 cups water to the Instant Pot. Secure lid and pressure cook on low for 8 minutes. Let steam release naturally. Strain and rinse pasta until cool.  Peel and slice each egg in half and set aside.  Using a large bowl, add cooled macaroni, salami, cucumber, arugula, spinach, red onion, and sliced green olives. Drizzle with ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil; add salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix together. Divide between four dinner plates. Arrange hard-boiled egg halves and lemon wedges on plates. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Bacon Chicken Chopped Salad

Bacon Chicken Chopped Salad

Bacon Chicken Chopped Salad

1 package (22 ounces) frozen grilled chicken breast strips

1 cup crumbled blue cheese

3 tablespoons white wine vinegar

1 tablespoon water

1/8 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper

1/4 cup canola oil

8 cups chopped romaine

3 medium tomatoes, chopped

6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

 

Heat chicken according to package directions. Cool slightly; coarsely chop chicken. For dressing, place cheese, vinegar, water and pepper in a small food processor; cover and process until smooth. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream. In a large bowl, combine romaine, chicken, tomatoes and bacon. Serve with dressing.

 

Serving Size: 2 1/3  C.

Calories: 348

Fat: 22g

Fiber: 2g

Italian Pasta Salad

Italian Pasta Salad

Italian Pasta Salad

16 oz. fusili pasta, cooked according to package instructions

8 oz. mozzarella balls, halved

4 oz. salami, quartered

2 c. baby spinach

1 c. cherry tomatoes, halved

1 c. artichoke hearts, chopped

1/2 c. pitted black olives, sliced

 

1/3 c. olive oil

2 tbsp. red wine vinegar

1 garlic clove, minced

2 tsp. Italian seasoning

1 tbsp. freshly chopped parsley

Pinch red pepper flakes

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

 

In a large bowl, toss together pasta, mozzarella, salami, spinach, tomatoes, artichokes, and olives.

To make the dressing, add olive oil, vinegar, garlic, Italian seasoning, parsley, and red pepper flakes to a jar and secure with a lid then shake to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.  Dress pasta with dressing and serve.

 

Get The Mix-Ins Right

Variety is the spice of pasta salad mix-ins. That’s how that phrase goes, right? But seriously, it’s all about variety. Variety in texture, flavor, and color. Hey, we eat with our eyes first! All that variety brings balance to your salad, so make sure you have several contrasting elements. For example:

Creamy/Fatty Mix-Ins These are the things you want in every bite: quartered mozzarella balls, crumbled bacon, shaved gouda, chunks of avocado, crumbled feta, prosciutto, or chopped salami are all solid options. Without them, your pasta salad might be a little too virtuous.

Crunchy/Fresh Mix-Ins We’re talking veggies! Arugula, chopped bell peppers, celery, spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, slices of raw red onion, the list goes on. Pick and choose your favorites! Without these, your pasta salad may feel a bit too heavy. It is Summer, after all! Take advantage of all that glorious produce.

Hearty Mix-Ins These elements can make your pasta salad feel like a meal. Chickpeas, chopped hard-boiled eggs, toasted nuts, shredded chicken, broiled or grilled shrimp, or even white beans make delicious and satisfying additions.

Salty Mix-Ins We LOVE a burst of salty flavor in our salads. Capers, sliced olives, pickled onions (or really anything pickled), sliced pepperoncini, or chopped anchovies for the adventurous folks.

Brightly Flavored Mix-Ins When we think of bright flavors, we think of herbs and citrus: things that will give your salad an extra boost of freshness and flavor. From dill to basil, in our opinion there’s no such thing as too many herbs. Feel free to combine 3 or 4 types of herbs, the more the merrier! When it comes to citrus, we like adding zest or juice to our final dish (especially those with creamy dressings) to add a little zing.

Get The Dressing Right

The dressing really ties everything together. Just like the mix-ins, you’re looking for balance. Your dressing should be bright but not astringent, full-bodied but not oily, flavorful but not overpowering, and perfectly seasoned. Okay, I know this sounds particular, but the good news is, all you really need are your taste buds! Dressing is one of the easiest things to taste an adjust while you’re making it, so as soon as you find your balance, you’re good to go. Here’s what ya need:

  1. Oil: use your favorite olive oil if you want that delicious rich flavor, or a neutral oil like vegetable oil or grape seed oil if you don’t.
  2. Vinegar: there’s SO many delicious vinegars, but some of our favorites are red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, and rice wine vinegar. Try to match your vinegar with your mix-ins. (For example: sliced cabbage, red peppers, chopped peanuts = rice wine vinegar. Basil, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella = balsamic or red wine vinegar.)
  3. Flavorings: minced garlic or shallots, fresh or dried herbs, spices or a scoop of dijon mustard all would be delicious add-ins. These flavorings are what gives your dressing personality.
  4. Sweeteners: although not totally necessary, we find that sometimes our dressings are a bit too acidic. (AKA that feeling when you taste it and it burns in the back of your throught.) A teaspoon or two of honey, maple syrup, agave, or even just plain sugar can help round out the acidity.
  5. Creaminess:also not entirely necessary, but if you’re craving a more bodacious dressing, try adding a scoop of mayo! This brings your pasta salad into a more traditional place, and we aren’t mad at that. If you don’t do dairy, pureeing your dressing with ripe avocado is a great substitute!

 

Steakhouse Steak Salad

Steakhouse Steak Salad

Steakhouse Steak Salad

 

3/4 C. Buttermilk Scallion Dressing

2 tsp. prepared horseradish

6 C. chopped romaine lettuce

2 medium tomatoes, cored and cut into wedges

1 pound well-trimmed sirloin steak, %” thick

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

1 (8-ounce) package sliced mushrooms

¼ C. reduced-fat blue cheese
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

 

In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing and horseradish. On a large serving platter, heap the romaine in the center. Arrange the tomatoes around the edge of the lettuce. Spray a large nonstick skillet with nonstick cooking spray and place over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the steak with salt and pepper and place in the skillet. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Transfer to a carving board, cover, and let rest. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they begin to brown, about 2 minutes. Add one T. water, and stir, scraping up browned bits with a spoon. Cook another 3 to 4 minutes, or until mushrooms are tender. Remove from heat. Cut the steak across the grain into thin slices. Pour dressing over lettuce and arrange the steak on top, and drizzle with the slicing juices. Spoon the mushrooms over the steak, sprinkle with the blue cheese and garnish with red onion. Serve immediately.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 250

Fat: 8g

Fiber: 3g

Lobster Macaroni Salad

Lobster Macaroni Salad

Lobster Macaroni Salad

8 ounces elbow macaroni

1 to 1 1/2 cups diced cooked lobster meat, or about 8 to 12 ounces*

1 cup thinly sliced celery

3/4 cup to 1 cup mayonnaise, or to taste

2 teaspoons  lemon juice

1 tablespoon snipped fresh chives or chopped fresh dill

Dash salt, or to taste

Dash pepper, or to taste

Optional: Lettuce leaves, for serving

 

Cook the macaroni in boiling salted water following package directions. Drain and let cool thoroughly.  In a large bowl, combine the macaroni, lobster, and celery. Add 3/4 cup of mayonnaise, lemon juice, and the snipped chives or dill. Toss to blend. Add more  mayonnaise to moisten, if desired.  Taste and add salt and freshly ground black pepper, as needed.  Cover and chill until serving time. Just before serving time, line a serving bowl with lettuce. Spoon the lobster macaroni salad into the lettuce-lined bowl.  *Three to four 1 pound lobsters should yield about 12 ounces of meat.

Panzanella with Green Olives, Mozzarella, Prosciutto and Tomatoes

Panzanella with Green Olives, Mozzarella, Prosciutto and Tomatoes

Tear about 10 oz. stale crusty bread (from a 6-inch loaf) into bite-size pieces.

In a large bowl, combine the bread with 1/2 C. green olives, pitted and cracked (about 8 whole olives); 8 oz. fresh mozzarella, tom into pieces; 4 oz. prosciutto, torn into pieces; 4 plum tomatoes, cut into rough chunks; 1 can (15 oz.) butter beans, rinsed and drained; and 1 tsp. fresh oregano leaves.

Drizzle the salad with 2 tsp. balsamic vinegar and 2 T. extra-virgin olive oil, season with salt and pepper, toss, and serve.

Bacon, Chicken, and Avocado Salad

Bacon, Chicken, and Avocado Salad

Bacon, Chicken, and Avocado Salad¼ lb bacon, or 4–5 slices, cut into ½-inch bits
8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped into 2 inch pieces, seasoned with salt and pepper
1 avocado – peeled, pitted and cut into 1-inch chunks
1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
¼ C. chopped red onion
½ C. chopped walnut
1 apple – cut into 1 inch chunks (optional)

In a pan over medium heat, cook the bacon “bits” until crisp. Remove and set aside, but save the bacon grease in the pan. Add the chopped and seasoned chicken thighs to the pan and sauté in the bacon grease. Cook the chicken and turn so that every side is browned. Allow it to simmer over low heat while you prepare the rest of the salad. Toss the chopped romaine, avocado, chicken and bacon together. Top with red onion and walnuts. Dress with your favorite vinaigrette.

Caprial Pence’s Cumin-Roasted Chicken Salad with Roasted Jalapeño Dressing

Caprial Pence’s Cumin-Roasted Chicken Salad with Roasted Jalapeño Dressing

cumin_roasted_cxsaladCumin-Roasted Chicken:
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon chili powder
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
6 chicken breasts, bone in

Roasted Jalapeño Dressing:
3 jalapeños, roasted, peeled, seeded, and minced
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 shallot, chopped
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
Zest and juice of 2 limes
3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper

1 pound mesclun mix, rinsed and spun dry
2 vine-ripened tomatoes, quartered
1 sweet pepper, julienned
1/3 cup pumpkin seeds, toasted
1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese

To prepare the chicken: Preheat the oven to 350°. In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, coriander, chili powder, and salt and pepper. Loosen the skin of the chicken breasts and rub the meat with the spice mixture. Place on a roasting pan and bake until the chicken is cooked through, about 15 minutes. Let cool about 10 minutes. Remove and discard the skin and shred the meat. Set aside. (The chicken can be roasted in advance and kept refrigerated for up to 2 days.) To prepare the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the jalapeños, garlic, shallot, vinegar, and lime zest and juice. While whisking, slowly add the olive oil and whisk until the dressing is thick and emulsified. Whisk in the cilantro and basil. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Set aside. (The dressing can be prepared in advance and kept refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.) To finish the salads: Distribute the greens, tomatoes, and sweet pepper among 6 plates. Top with the chicken, and sprinkle with the pumpkin seeds and cheese. Drizzle with the dressing. Serve immediately.

Green on Green Salad with Charred Corn, Chicken, & Homemade Green Goddess Dressing

Green on Green Salad with Charred Corn, Chicken, & Homemade Green Goddess Dressing

Green on green salad with corn 0141 pound cooked chicken breasts, roasted or grilled
2 ears yellow corn, shucked & silks removed
Olive oil for brushing corn
Kosher or sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
8 cups fresh arugula
½ English cucumber, very thinly sliced
1 medium ripe Hass avocado
Homemade Green Goddess dressing (recipe below)

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Rub the corn with a little olive oil and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Grill, rotating occasionally, until the corn is charred on all sides. Remove to a cutting board and when cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off of the cobs. Divide the arugula among four plates and sprinkle with a little salt & freshly ground black pepper. Top with sliced chicken, some corn, and the sliced cucumbers. Cut the avocado in half lengthwise and remove the pit. With a large spoon, scoop the avocado out of the shell and cut the flesh into thin slices. Place ¼ of the avocado on each salad in a fan shape. Serve with Green Goddess dressing on the side.

Homemade Green Goddess Dressing

½ cup Greek yogurt
2 anchovies
¼ cup lightly packed Italian flat-leaf parsley
2 tablespoons roughly chopped chives or the white part of scallions
2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon Champagne vinegar, or any good white wine vinegar
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Combine all of the ingredients through the vinegar in the bowl of a mini food processor and blend for several minutes until the dressing is bright green and the herbs are incorporated. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and add more lemon juice if needed. Makes about 2/3 cup.

French Lentil Salad with Garlic Sausage

French Lentil Salad with Garlic Sausage

Lentil and sausage salad 161 cup French green lentils
4 ½ cups cold water
Kosher salt
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
1 medium peeled onion, finely chopped
1 medium carrot (or 2 small ones), peeled & finely chopped
1 teaspoon fennel seeds
3 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
Freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, more to taste
14 to 16 ounces fully cooked garlic sausage
4 fresh sprigs of parsley for garnish, optional

In a heavy 2 quart saucepan or stockpot, bring lentils and 1 teaspoon salt to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until lentils are just tender but not falling apart. This will take between 12 and 25 minutes. Taste as you go along for doneness. While the lentils simmer, heat 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil in a non-stick sauté pan over moderate to low heat, then cook onions, carrots and fennel seeds, covered, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are very tender but not browned, about 10 minutes, then add a bit of kosher salt to taste. Meanwhile slice the garlic sausage into ¼” slices. Heat sausages over low heat, taking care that they do not brown. You want them just to heat through. To serve, place a good size spoonful of lentils in the center of 4 plates and arrange 4 slices of the garlic sausages around the lentils. Drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil if you wish and serve right away, garnished with a sprig of fresh parsley if desired.

Cheese Tortellini with a Fresh Tomato and Artichoke Slaw

Cheese Tortellini with a Fresh Tomato and Artichoke Slaw

Salt (optional), for cooking the pasta
1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated fresh cheese tortellini
1 jar (6 ounces) marinated artichoke hearts with their liquid
1 T. chopped fresh basil, or 1 tsp. store-bought pesto
1 pint (2 C.) grape or cherry tomatoes, or 2 C. chopped tomatoes (from 2 medium-size tomatoes)
1 tsp. capers, drained
¼ C. pre-shredded Parmesan cheese

Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add salt, is using, and stir in the tortellini. Reduce the heat to medium-high and cook the tortellini, uncovered, until al dente, 5 to 6 minutes. Meanwhile, place the artichoke hearts with their liquid, basil, and tomatoes in a food processor. Pulse 10 times, or until the mixture has a slaw-like consistency. Stir in the capers. Drain the tortellini well in a colander, shaking it a few times to remove any water that might still cling to the pasta. Transfer the tortellini to a serving bowl or serving plates. Pour the slaw over the tortellini and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top. Serve at once. (For a beautiful yellow color, use yellow tomatoes in the slaw. Add a little chopped yellow bell pepper for bite, and substitute another herb for the basil, if you like)

Chili-Lime Steak Salad with Creamy Lime Dressing

Chili-Lime Steak Salad with Creamy Lime Dressing

For Chili-Lime Steak Saladthe Chili-Lime Steak:
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. granulated garlic
1/2 tsp. cumin
1/2 tsp. coriander
1/2 tsp. oregano
1/8 – 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
3/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1 lime
1-2 lbs flank steak (tenderloin, NY strip or tri-tip could also be used)

Juice the lime into a small bowl, add the spices and stir to combine. If it seams a little too dry you can add a tsp. of extra virgin olive oil to thin it out. Place the steak in a shallow dish and use your hands to rub the mixture on all sides. Pre-heat the grill and let the steak sit for 15 minutes. Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side (if using flank steak). When it is finished remove the steak and let it sit for 5 minutes before slicing it into 1/4″ strips against the grain.

For the salad:

1-2 lbs flank steak, prepared as above
1 head romaine lettuce (or other green to your taste)
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or quartered
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1-2 avocados, sliced
1 can black olives, halved or quartered
1 can corn, drained, if desired
Optional: tortilla chip, cilantro for garnish

Toss salad ingredients together. Add dressing and toss well again to coat.

Creamy Lime-Cilantro Dressing:

1 1oz. package Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing Mix (do not follow the directions on the package)
1 C. mayonnaise
1/2 C. milk
1 lime
2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
1/2 C. cilantro, roughly chopped
1/4 C. salsa verde
hot sauce to taste

Place all of the ingredients above into a blender and blend it up.

Arugula Skirt Steak Salad with Caramelized Pears, Pecans, and Gorgonzola

Arugula Skirt Steak Salad with Caramelized Pears, Pecans, and Gorgonzola

0cb80e56690be71c6f6ba5f200ea532c1 lb. skirt steak, excess fat trimmed
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, for seasoning (about 1 teaspoon per side of steak)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup light brown sugar
2 large pears, cored and cut into medium-sized chunks
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
3/4 cup chopped pecans
4 ounces crumbled gorgonzola cheese
4 cups baby arugula, washed and patted dry

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/3 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Heat a large skillet over a medium-high flame; add olive oil to skillet. When oil begins to simmer (you can test this by carefully placing a drop of water in the pan; if it sizzles ferociously, it’s ready), place steak in skillet and let it cook for 5 minutes. Turn it and cook for another 4 minutes (5-6 if you want more medium than medium-rare). Transfer meat to a large cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Prepare the rest of your ingredients while it’s resting. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium flame. Once melted add brown sugar and stir until sugar is dissolved. Add pear chunks, stir, and then cook – stirring occasionally – for about 5 minutes, or just until the pears have released their juices and really softened up. With a slotted spoon (leaving behind as much sauce as possible) transfer pears to a clean plate. Add pecans to the same skillet the pears were cooked in (keeping the pear juices and caramel in the pan!), and toss them in the caramel, cooking over medium heat for just 1-2 minutes. Remove pan from heat and working quickly transfer pecans to a plate covered in wax or parchment paper. Once steak has rested for 10 minutes, slice meat against the grain into 1” strips. Scatter arugula onto a large serving dish or platter. Arrange steak strips across the top, then add pears, pecans, and gorgonzola evenly around the platter. Lightly dress with vinaigrette, and serve at once.

For the Mustard Vinaigrette: Whisk all of the ingredients together. Season well with salt and pepper and adjust ingredients to taste.

Grilled Steak Bruschetta Salad

Grilled Steak Bruschetta Salad

1/4 C. apricot preserves

1/4 C. prepared horseradish

1/4 C. creamy Dijon-style mustard blend

2 T. lemon juice

4 6-oz. beef tenderloin steaks, cut 1-inch thick

12 1/4-inch-thick slices baguette-style French bread

4 C. arugula

1/4 C. bottled roasted red sweet peppers, chopped

1/4 C. crumbled blue cheese

Snip any large pieces in preserves. In bowl combine preserves, horseradish, mustard blend, and lemon juice. Set aside.  Sprinkle beef on both sides with 1/4 tsp. each salt and pepper. For charcoal grill, grill steaks on the rack of uncovered grill directly over medium coals, turning once. Allow 10 to 12 minutes for medium-rare doneness (145 degrees F), 12 to 15 minutes for medium (160 degrees F). Grill bread slices with steaks during last 2 minutes, or until bread is toasted; turn once. (For gas grill, preheat grill. Reduce to medium. Place steaks on rack over heat. Cover and grill as above.). Divide arugula among 4 serving plates. Top with bread slices. Drizzle with dressing. Slice steak; arrange on bread. Top with red peppers and blue cheese.  Optional:  toss heirloom cherry tomatoes, capers and artichoke hearts with arugula.

 

Servings: 4

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Chinese Chicken Salad with Toasted Almonds

Chinese Chicken Salad with Toasted Almonds

SALAD:

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, grilled or roasted and sliced

1 large head romaine lettuce, torn into bite-size pieces (8 C.)

1/2 head red cabbage, shredded (4 C.)

8 scallions, sliced diagonally

1/2 C. chow mein noodles

1/2 C. chopped almonds, toasted

Dressing:

1/4 C. vegetable broth

2 1/2 T. canola oil

1/4 C. rice wine vinegar

2 T. sugar

1 T. reduced-sodium soy sauce

1 T. toasted sesame oil

 

To prepare the salad: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, lettuce, cabbage, scallions, and noodles. To prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the broth, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Whisk to blend. Pour the dressing over the chicken salad. Toss to coat. Serve, sprinkled with the almonds.

 

Yield: 8 servings

Calories: 300

Fat: 14g

Fiber: 3g

 

A Collection of Chicken Pasta Salads

A Collection of Chicken Pasta Salads

Chicken Pasta Salad

 

1 whole cooked broiler-fryer, boned, skinned, cut in chunks

1 16 oz. package frozen broccoli

1/4 tsp. salt

1 8 oz. package pasta shells, cooked

2 cubed large tomatoes

1/2 C. coarsely chopped red onions

1/2 tsp. black pepper

1 C. low calorie Italian salad dressing

 

In saucepan, steam broccoli over boiling water for about 5 minutes.  Remove broccoli from pan, drain and sprinkle with salt.  While still warm place chicken, broccoli, shell macaroni, tomatoes and onion in a large bowl; sprinkle with pepper.  Add Italian dressing and mix gently but thoroughly.  Chill in refrigerator.  Serve cold.

Chicken Rainbow Salad

 

8oz. Rotini Noodles

2 C. Chicken, cubed and cooked

1 medium Cucumber, sliced

1 C. Celery, sliced

1/2 Red Onion, sliced thin

1/2 C. Mayonnaise

1/4 C. Sour Cream

2 T. Milk

1 tsp. Dried Dill Weed

1 tsp. Salt

1/4 tsp. Pepper

 

Cook pasta.  Meanwhile, in large bowl, combine chicken, cucumber, celery, and onion.  Mix in pasta.  In small bowl blend mayonnaise, sour cream, milk and seasonings. Mix in pasta.  Toss dressing with salad mixture.

 

 

Chicken Spiral Pasta Salad

 

10 oz. spiral pasta, uncooked

2 C. cut asparagus tips

2 C. yellow squash, sliced

2 C. red bell peppers, diced

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1/2 C. cracker meal

1/4 tsp. fresh ground black pepper

1 tsp. parsley flakes

1/2 tsp. thyme

1 Butter Buds Mix, reconstituted

1/3 C. cashews, roasted, unsalted

1/2 C. plain lowfat yogurt

1 T. Miracle Whip Lite

1 C. 2% lowfat milk

1 Good Seasons salad dressing

 

Using multicolored vegetable spirals makes a colorful salad.   Mix the cracker meal with the pepper, parsley and thyme.  Dip chicken breasts in Butter Buds mixture, then dip into cracker crumb/seasoning mixture (in a separate bowl).  Place on a lightly greased or teflon baking sheet in a pre-heated 400 degree oven for about 25 minutes (turn chicken over after about 12 minutes).  While chicken is cooking, boil pasta, lightly steam vegetables and diced red pepper. Mix the yogurt, Miracle Whip Lite, lowfat milk and Good Seasons salad dressing mix, or use your own seasoning, in the processor or blender.  When chicken breast is cooked, cut into thin slices or chunks and toss everything together in a large serving bowl.  Serve chilled.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

 

Italian Wedding Salad

Italian Wedding Salad

 

6 ounces orzo pasta

chicken broth or water

32 frozen meatballs, thawed

1/2 C. Italian dressing

1 (6 ounce) jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained & chopped

1 (6 ounce) package baby spinach leaves

1/4 C. chopped walnuts, toasted

salt and pepper

grated parmesan cheese (to garnish)

 

Cook the orzo in the chicken broth or water as directed on package. Drain well. In a Dutch oven, combine the thawed meatballs and Italian dressing. Cook over medium heat to heat balls through. Stir in the drained orzo, chopped artichoke hearts, spinach leaves and toasted walnuts. Heat and stir until spinach is wilted. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Watercress Salad with Sesame Tofu, Ginger Chicken, and Mystery Dressing

Watercress Salad with Sesame Tofu, Ginger Chicken, and Mystery Dressing

 

Somewhere in the line of: 2 minced shallots, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 teaspoon cashew butter, crushed red pepper flakes, a little coconut milk, 1 teaspoon chipotle salsa, 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon whole grain English mustard, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, and some pepper. Whisk. Taste.  Brush half on the chicken, which is already washed, dried, salted, peppered, and diced.  Wash a head of watercress (and remove woody ends); wash two scallions, remove dark green tips and chop; slice 1/2 small red onion thinly, and then wash a handful of mint leaves and rip ‘em apart. Assemble in a bowl and refrigerate.  Roll tofu in blond sesame seeds and sautéed it in olive oil on medium high (3 minutes per side); remove and drain.  Sauté the chicken with some grated ginger on medium (3 minutes both sides). Set aside. Toss half the remaining salad dressing with the watercress, then add the tofu and toss with remaining dressing. Plate and top the chicken. Eat with chopsticks.

Speedy Fajita Salad

Speedy Fajita Salad

1 tablespoon prepared taco seasoning

10 – 12 ounces cooked roast beef, thinly sliced

2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

1/2 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced

4 cups chopped romaine lettuce

1 cup chopped beefsteak tomatoes

1/4 – 1/2 cup diced red onion

3 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or Italian parsley leaves

1/4 cup shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese

 

In medium bowl, combine taco seasoning and beef slices, toss to coat.  Warm 1 teaspoon of the oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add pepper slices; cook 4 minutes, until softened and lightly charred, stirring often. Add beef slices, cook to warm through, stirring.  Chop lettuce, tomatoes, and onion; place in large serving bowl. Toss with remaining 2 teaspoons olive oil and lime juice. Top salad with warm beef/pepper mixture. Sprinkle with cheese and cilantro. Serve immediately with tortillas.

Asian Chicken Slaw

Asian Chicken Slaw

1 (16-ounce) bag coleslaw mix

1 pound cooked chicken, shredded

2 C. broccoli florets, blanched

1 C. sugar snap peas

1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 C. sliced scallions

1/2 C. chopped cashews (optional)

 

Dressing:

1/4 C. soy sauce

2 T. white vinegar

2 T. smooth peanut butter

1 T. sugar

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp. freshly grated ginger

1/2 C. canola oil

1 T. sesame oil

 

In a large bowl, toss together the coleslaw mix, chicken, broccoli, snap peas, red pepper, and scallions.  In a medium bowl, stir the soy sauce, vinegar, peanut butter, sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well blended. Slowly whisk in the canola oil and sesame oil. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.  Toss the salad with the dressing. Offer chopped cashews on the side as a crunchy topping, if you like.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Chinese Chicken Salad with Red Chile Peanut Dressing

Chinese Chicken Salad with Red Chile Peanut Dressing

1/4 C. rice wine vinegar

2 T. smooth peanut butter

1 T. chopped fresh ginger

2 tsp. chipotle pepper puree

1 T. soy sauce

1 T. honey

2 tsp. toasted sesame oil

1/2 C. canola oil

Salt and freshly ground pepper

1/2 head Napa cabbage, shredded

1/2 head romaine lettuce, shredded

2 carrots, shredded

1/4 pound snow peas, julienned

1/4 C. coarsely chopped fresh cilantro leaves

1/4 C. thinly sliced green onion

2 C. shredded rotisserie chicken

1/2 C. chopped roasted peanuts

1/4 C. chopped fresh mint leaves

Chili oil, optional

Grilled lime halves, for garnish

 

Whisk together the vinegar, peanut butter, ginger, chipotle pepper puree, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and canola oil in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Combine cabbage, lettuce, carrots, snow peas, cilantro, and green onion in a large bowl. Add the dressing and toss to combine. Transfer to a serving platter and top with the shredded chicken, chopped peanuts, and mint. Drizzle with chili oil, if desired. Garnish with grilled lime halves.

Sliced Pork Tenderloin Saltimbocca on Spinach and Arugula Salad

Sliced Pork Tenderloin Saltimbocca on Spinach and Arugula Salad

2 pork tenderloins (about 2 pounds), trimmed of silver skin and connective tissue

6 garlic cloves, peeled

1/4 C. extra-virgin olive oil,(EVOO) plus more for drizzling

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

A bundle of fresh sage leaves

1/4 pound prosciutto di Parma

1 pound baby spinach

2 C. arugula leaves (1 bunch), washed and trimmed of stems

6 button mushrooms, trimmed and thinly sliced

1 shallot, minced

2 T. red wine vinegar

juice of 1/2 lemon

2 T. fresh chopped thyme leaves

 

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Place the pork tenderloins on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Cut 3 slits into each loin a few inches apart. Nest the cloves of garlic into the slits. Slatehr the pork with a healthy drizzle of EVOO and use your hands to coat the pork. Strap leaves of sage across each piece of pork. Wrap the tenderloins in the prosciutto, covering the pork entirely. Drizzle again with EVOO. Roast the pork for 25 minutes. While the pork roasts, prepare the salad. Combine the greens and mushrooms in a salad bowl. In a smaller bowl, combine the minced shallot with the vinegar, lemon juice, and thyme. Let stand for 15 minutes. (Nice place for a red wine break here. Even Atkins himself had a glass now and again.) Stream about 1/4 C. of EVOO into the dressing while whisking to emulsify it. Toss the salad with the dressing. To serve, pile the salad onto the plates. Slice the tenderloins on an angle, 1/2 inch slices, and arrange the sliced pork atop the salad.

Crisp Romaine Salad with Chicken and Mango

Crisp Romaine Salad with Chicken and Mango

2 T. olive oil 

3 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, trimmed 

1/2 tsp. salt 

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 

2 shallots, finely chopped 

2 T. balsamic vinegar 

4 C. shredded romaine lettuce 

1 sm bunch watercress, lg stems discarded 

1/2 C. finely shredded red cabbage 

1 firm ripe mango, peeled, pitted, and cut into 1/2″ pieces 

 

Heat 1 T. of the oil in large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with 1/4 tsp. of the salt and 1/8 tsp. of the pepper. Cook, turning, until golden brown and cooked through, about 6 minutes on each side. Transfer to cutting board. Add shallots and 1 T. of the vinegar to skillet and cook, stirring, until shallots are softened and liquid is almost evaporated, about 3 minutes. Transfer shallots to small bowl. Whisk remaining 1 T. oil, 1 T. vinegar, 1/4 tsp. salt, and 1/8 tsp. pepper into shallot mixture. Place romaine, watercress, cabbage, and mango in serving bowl. Cut chicken diagonally into long, thin strips. Add to romaine mixture, toss with dressing, and serve.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 222

Fat: 8g

Fiber: 2g

Southwestern Chicken Salad with Crispy Tortilla Chips

Southwestern Chicken Salad with Crispy Tortilla Chips

1 whole wheat tortilla (9″–10″ diameter, 180 calories) 

Zest of 1 lime 

1/2 tsp. minced garlic 

1/2 tsp. cumin 

1/8 tsp. red pepper flakes 

1 1/2 C. cooked chicken, pulled from 1/2 rotisserie chicken, skin discarded 

1 T. fresh lime juice 

1 T. olive oil 

1 T. (or more, to taste) chopped cilantro 

8 C. mixed greens 

1 red bell pepper, sliced 

1/4 avocado, sliced 

 

Preheat oven to 400ºF. Cut tortilla into quarters and each quarter into 2 wedges. Place on baking sheet and bake until crisp, about 5 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside. Place lime zest, garlic, cumin, and red pepper flakes in medium bowl and stir. Add chicken and toss well to coat. In large salad bowl, combine lime juice, oil, and cilantro. Add greens, red bell pepper, and avocado and toss well. Top salad mix with chicken. Place toasted tortilla wedges around edge of salad bowl.

 

Yield: 2 servings

Calories: 383

Fat: 16g

Fiber: 9g

Spinach Salad Topped with Almond-Encrusted Chicken Breast

Spinach Salad Topped with Almond-Encrusted Chicken Breast

CHICKEN:

5 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast

1 T. cornstarch

1 egg beaten with 1 T. water

1 T. finely chopped almonds

SALAD:

2 T. balsamic vinegar

1 T. olive oil

1/8 tsp. ground black pepper

3 C. baby spinach leaves

1/4 C. sliced mushrooms

1/4 C. yellow or red grape tomatoes, halved

1 small red bell pepper, sliced into strips

 

To prepare the chicken: Sprinkle each side of the chicken with the cornstarch. Dip into the egg mixture to coat, allowing excess to drip off. Sprinkle both sides with the almonds. Coat a small nonstick skillet with vegetable oil spray and heat over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5 minutes on each side, or until no longer pink and the juices run clear. Remove from the pan and set aside. To prepare the salad: In a medium bowl, whisk the vinegar, oil, and black pepper. Add the spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, and bell pepper. Toss to coat. Transfer to a serving plate. Slice the reserved chicken diagonally and place on top.

 

Yield: 1 serving

Calories: 489

Fat: 23g

Fiber: 7g

 

Brown Rice and Soy Chicken Salad with Mango

Brown Rice and Soy Chicken Salad with Mango

1 C. medium- or long-grain brown, red, or black rice

2 C. water

6 ounces green beans, trimmed and cut in half (about 2 C.)

12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/2″-wide strips

1 T. low-sodium soy sauce

4 T. rice wine vinegar

2 T. canola oil

1 tsp. toasted sesame oil

1 tsp. grated fresh ginger

1/4 tsp. salt

1/2 C. minced scallions, all parts

1 red bell pepper, cut into 1/4″ strips

1 mango, peeled and cut into 1/4″ dice, divided

1/4 C. chopped cilantro

 

Combine the rice and 2 C. of water in a medium saucepan and heat to a boil. Cover and cook over low heat for about 45 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Transfer to a strainer, rinse with cold water, and drain well. While the rice cooks, fill a small saucepan halfway with water and bring to a boil over high heat. Add the beans and cook until crisptender, about 3 minutes. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside. Place the chicken in a small bowl. Add the soy sauce and toss to coat. Lightly coat a nonstick skillet with vegetable oil spray and heat to medium. When hot, add the chicken. Cook, turning, for 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until evenly browned and cooked through. Transfer to a platter. Whisk the vinegar, canola oil, sesame oil, ginger, and salt in a large bowl. Add the rice, beans, chicken, scallions, pepper, and half of the mango. Gently toss to combine. Spoon onto the platter and top with cilantro and the remaining mango.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 384

Fat: 12g

Fiber: 5g

Bresaola Salad

Bresaola Salad

8 C. arugula

1 lemon, juiced

Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Coarse salt

A small chunk Parmigiano, 1/3 pound minimum

1 pound bresaola (cured beef, like prosciutto) available at deli counter

1 can artichoke hearts in water, drained

4 sprigs rosemary

A handful flat-leaf parsley

1/2 C. caper berries, drained

Aged balsamic vinegar, for drizzling (look for 6 plus years of age, widely available in many markets)

 

Place arugula in a bowl and dress with lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil and salt. Divide the arugula among dinner plates or place on a serving platter and mound the greens up. Use a vegetable peeler to shred some cheese on top of the arugula. Arrange the meat in a thin layer all around the plate, draping it over the arugula. The plates or platter should look like a mound of beef. Thinly slice the artichokes, finely chop rosemary and parsley and slice the caper berries. Decoratively arrange the artichokes, chopped herbs and capers all over the meat. Drizzle the completed salad with aged balsamic vinegar and serve.

Dilled Crab Salad

Dilled Crab Salad

16 ounces flaked crabmeat
3 C. fresh sugar snap peas, halved widthwise
2 medium cucumbers, sliced
1 medium sweet red pepper, julienned
1/2 C. thinly sliced red onion
1/2 C. snipped fresh dill
1/3 C. prepared ranch dressing
1/3 C. sour cream
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Boston lettuce

In a bowl, combine the crab, peas, cucumbers, red pepper, onion and dill. Combine the dressing, sour cream and lemon juice; mix well. Pour over crab mixture and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight. Serve on a bed of lettuce.

Warm White Bean and Shrimp Salad with Lime Vinaigrette

Warm White Bean and Shrimp Salad with Lime Vinaigrette

1 tsp. olive oil
1 medium onion, peeled and diced
1 C. Great Northern beans, soaked overnight and drained
7 C. water
1 medium-size ancho chili
1 tsp. salt, plus more to taste
Freshly ground pepper to taste
2 tsp. chopped cilantro

1 large clove garlic, peeled and minced
2 T. fresh lime juice
3 T. olive oil
â…› tsp. salt
Freshly ground pepper to taste
The shrimp:
½ C. sesame seeds
¼ C. cumin seeds
½ tsp. salt, plus more to taste
Olive oil spray
1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 egg whites, lightly beaten
1 lime, halved

To make the beans, heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the beans and water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat so the liquid simmers and cook until the beans are tender, about 1 hour. Drain and season with the salt and pepper to taste. Meanwhile, place the chili in a saucepan and cover with water. Simmer until the chili is soft, about 5 minutes. Stem and seed the chili. Cut into small dice and set aside. To make the dressing, whisk together the garlic, lime juice, olive oil, salt and pepper. Set aside. To make the shrimp, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add sesame seeds and shake pan until seeds are toasted, about 20 seconds. Place in a bowl. Place cumin seeds in the skillet and toast for about 15 seconds. Place in a spice grinder and pulse until cracked but not ground. Stir together sesame and cumin seeds and 1/2 tsp. salt. Preheat broiler. Spray a baking sheet with the olive oil. One at a time, dip the shrimp into the egg whites and then coat with the sesame seed mixture. Place on the prepared baking sheet. Broil the shrimp until cooked through and nicely browned, about 3 minutes per side. Season with additional salt and squeeze the lime juice over the shrimp. Place the warm beans in a large bowl. Stir in the chili and toss with the vinaigrette. Season with additional salt if needed. Divide the salad among 4 plates and top with shrimp. Garnish with the cilantro and serve.

Steak Salad with Bacon & Crispy Potatoes

Steak Salad with Bacon & Crispy Potatoes

4 oz. bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
8 oz. Yukon gold or fingerling potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
kosher salt and black pepper
2 tsp. canola oil
1 ½ lb. sirloin steak (1 inch thick)
¾ C. crumbled blue cheese, such as Stilton or Roquefort (3 oz.)
¼ C. sour cream
¼ C. buttermilk
1 tsp. red wine vinegar
1 scallion, chopped
1 head romaine lettuce, torn into bite-size pieces (about 8 C.)

Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until crisp, 5 to 7 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve the skillet.
Add the potatoes to the drippings in the skillet, season with ¼ tsp. each salt and pepper, and increase heat to medium-high. Cook, tossing occasionally, until browned and tender, 12 to 15 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a second large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with ¼ tsp. each salt and pepper and cook until and instant-read thermometer inserted in each piece register 130ºF, 5 to 7 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let rest at least 5 minutes before slicing. Mix together the blue cheese, sour cream, buttermilk, vinegar, scallion, and ¼ tsp. each salt and pepper in a small bowl. Divide the lettuce among plates, top with the steak, bacon, and potatoes, and drizzle with the dressing.

Green Papaya Salad with Lemongrass Shrimp

Green Papaya Salad with Lemongrass Shrimp

For the Dressing:

1 tsp. Garlic, minced
2-3 ea. Thai bird chili (or ½ Serrano), chopped
4 tsp. Sugar
2 tsp. Fish sauce
2 tsp. Fresh lime juice
2 tsp. Water

For the Shrimp:

Sugar 1 tsp.
1 ½ tsp. Minced lemongrass
1 tsp. Minced shallots
2 ea. Thai bird chilies, minced
2 tsp. Fish sauce
1 tsp. Vegetable oil
2/3 lb. (21-25 count) Medium-size raw shrimp, shelled and deveined
For the Salad:

1 ea. Medium green papaya, peeled, seeded and shredded into thin, long strands
2 carrots, shredded thinly
2/3 C. Thai basil leaves, cut in thirds
¼ C. Fried shallots
¼ C. Coarsely chopped roasted peanuts
8 sprigs Cilantro

For the dressing: For the dressing, combine the garlic, chilies, 4 tsp. sugar, fish sauce, lime juice in a small bowl and set aside. For the Marinade: Place 1 tsp. sugar, lemongrass, shallots, chilies, fish sauce and oil in a medium-size bowl and mix well. Add the shrimp. Toss gently to coat and marinate for 20 minutes. Grill or sear the shrimp in an oiled skillet over high heat until just done, about 2 to 3 minutes. Set aside to cool. Slightly bruise the papaya strands in a mortar and pestle. Put the cooked shrimp, papaya, basil, carrots and fried shallots in a mixing bowl. Add the dressing and toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients. Sprinkle the peanuts into the bowl, then toss and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with cilantro and serve.

Warm Shrimp Salad with Mushroom Vinaigrette

Warm Shrimp Salad with Mushroom Vinaigrette

Mushroom Vinaigrette:
1 lb. (31-40 shrimp, peeled and de-veined)
8 oz. Olive oil
3 C. raw mushrooms sliced (approx. 10 oz.)
2-3 T. Fresh sage
1 tsp. Cracked black pepper
1 tsp. Salt
1 tsp. Splenda
2 oz. White vinegar
2 tsp. Roased sesame seed

Salad:
8 C. lettuce – rinced and torn into serving pieces
2 C. alfalfa sprouts
½ C. shaved red onion

Preheat 12″ sauté pan over medium high heat. Add olive oil, mushrooms, sage, black pepper, Splenda and vinegar. Cook until mushrooms are soft (about 4-5 minutes). Add shrimp and cover with lid. Turn off heat and shrimp will cook in about five minutes. Pour over salad.