Mixed Green Salad with Pears,Blue Cheese and Hazelnuts DIAMOND FRUIT GROWERS

Mixed Green Salad with Pears,Blue Cheese and Hazelnuts DIAMOND FRUIT GROWERS

1/2 cup chopped, skinned
hazelnuts
1 4-ounce bag mixed baby
salad greens (about 8 cups
lightly packed)
1/4 cup dried currants
2 firm but ripe Diamond Fruit
Growers green or red
Anjou pears
1/4 pound blue cheese, crumbled

DRESSING
1 tablespoon white vinegar
2 tablespoons apricot spread
(without chunks),melted
2 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin
olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar
Freshly ground pepper to taste

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Spread hazelnuts in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
Roast until barely golden, 7-10 minutes. Let cool.
3. Place salad greens, currants and hazelnuts in a large serving bowl.
4. Combine dressing ingredients and whisk or shake to blend. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
5. When ready to serve, core and cut each pear into 8 wedges.
6. Give the dressing a last-minute shake and pour over the salad.
Toss gently and divide among 4 plates.
7. Scatter cheese over the salads and arrange 4 pear slices around each one. Serve immediately.
Makes 4 servings.