Chef John D. Folse's Spinach Salad with Sautéed Pears
Ingredients
|
6 cups
|
spinach, fresh
|
|
2 wild cooking pears
|
cored and diced (local and available varieties may be substituted)
|
|
1/4 cup
|
lemon juice
|
|
1/4 cup
|
olive oil
|
|
4 slices
|
bacon, chopped
|
|
1 cup
|
onions, sliced
|
|
1/2 cup
|
red bell peppers, sliced
|
|
1/2 cup
|
white wine vinegar
|
|
1/2 cup
|
red wine vinegar
|
|
2 tablespoons
|
sugar
|
|
1 teaspoon
|
orange peel, grated
|
|
1 teaspoon
|
thyme, chopped
|
|
1/2 teaspoon
|
basil, chopped
|
|
Optional
|
salt and pepper
|
|
Optional
|
Louisiana hot sauce
|
Cooking Instructions
Wild cooking pears are recommended for this dish; however, you may substitute any available local variety. The pears will brown once diced. To prevent discoloration, place diced fruit and 1/4-cup lemon juice into a bowl until ready to cook. In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add bacon, stirring until fat is rendered and bacon is crispy. Mix in onions and bell peppers. Sauté 3 to 5 minutes or until vegetables are wilted. Stir in diced pears and cook until al dente. It is important for the cooked pears to have a firm texture. Mix in vinegars, sugar and orange peel. Bring to a low boil then reduce and simmer. Season to taste with thyme, basil, salt, pepper, and hot sauce. Place spinach in a large salad bowl and pour pear mixture over greens. Toss quickly and serve immediately.
Equipment List
