Spinach, Pear & Cherry Salad

Who says salads are just for summer?This crisp, winter salad will delight you and your guests. Any seasonal fruit you have (apples, etc) may be substituted, but I admit, I am a fan of the short/squatty/floral smelling Comice pears.  You're plumb out of apple cider vinegar? No problem.  Red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar will do just fine.  Feta cheese can replace bleu cheese if you're not a fan and pecans are great if you're out of walnuts. Leftover chicken, fish or shrimp can be added to make this salad a meal.  Bon appetit! IngredientsSalad

• 1 bag baby spinach leaves (10 oz)
• 1/3 cup dried cherries (or cranberries)
• 2 rice Comice or other pears
• 2/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1 Tbsp. crumbled bleu cheese or feta cheese

 Dressing

• 1/3 cup canola oil
• 3 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
• 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp. honey
• 1 tsp. salt
• Freshly ground pepper (optional)

 DirectionsWash and dry the spinach leaves and place in a large bowelWash and cut the pears into small chunks and add to spinachAdd the chopped nuts and cheese crumblesMix ingredients for dressing and drizzle over salad prior to serving.Makes 8 servings.  Nutrition information per serving:  194 calories, 16 grams fat, 4 grams protein, 12 grams carbohydrate, 3.3 grams fiber, 1 mg cholesterol, 333 mg sodium