Strawberry Sesame Salad

I posted this one on my life blog last week, but here's a picture to go with it and a few other suggestions. Great for entertaining.


3/4 c Almonds, chopped
1 T Sugar
1 lb Romaine, rinsed and torn
1 c Strawberries, sliced or chunked
1 c Chow Mein noodles
1/2 c Celery, finely chopped

DRESSING
(makes enough for 2 salads)
1 T Toasted sesame seeds
1 T Poppy seeds
1/2 c White Sugar
2 t Minced onion
1/4 t Paprika
1 c White wine vinegar
1 t Cinnamon
2/3 c Canola oil
1 t Sesame oil

In a medium saucepan,cook and stir almonds until lightly toasted, add sugar and still constantly until candied. Spread on a plate to cool. Break up nuts when cooled.

In a large bowl, combine lettuce, almonds, berries, noodles, & celery.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the sesame seeds, poppy seeds, sugar, onion, paprika, vinegars, and oils. (makes enough for two salads - extra can be stored for another salad). Toss with salad just before serving.

COST:
Approx $6-10 (depending on what you have on hand)

VARIATIONS:
Substitute Bibb/Boston/Butter lettuce for romaine
Add sunflower seeds
Add provolone cheese
Use poppy seed dressing (often do if no time to make the vingrette)
Mandarin Oranges instead of Strawberries
Grilled Chicken