pear salad

I'm pretty particular when it comes to salads, and this one is probably in the top three best salads I've ever eaten.

pear salad
makes 6 servings

1 head escarole or green leaf lettuce 2-3 pears, chopped 5 oz Roquefort cheese, crumbled 2 avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced 1/2 cup thinly sliced green or red onions 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved (optional) 1 cup pecans 1/4 cup sugar 1/3 cup olive oil 3 tbsp lemon juice 2 tsp lemon rind 1 1/2 tsp white sugar or honey 1 1/2 tsp mustard 1 clove garlic, chopped 1/2 tsp salt fresh ground black pepper to taste

In a skillet over medium heat, stir 1/4 cup of sugar and 1 tbsp water together with the pecans. Continue stirring gently until sugar has melted and caramelized the pecans. Carefully transfer nuts onto waxed paper. Allow to cool, and break into pieces.

For the dressing, blend oil, lemon, 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar/honey, mustard, chopped garlic, salt, and pepper.

In a large serving bowl, layer lettuce, pears, blue cheese, avocado, and green onions. Pour dressing over salad, sprinkle with pecans, and serve.