My Aunts Festive Salad Recipes

Steps:

• For the candied nuts: In a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, toast the pistachios and hazelnuts until fragrant, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the brown sugar, salt, vanilla and 1 tablespoon water directly to the pan with the nuts and stir to coat them. Cook until the sugar has dissolved, about 1 additional minute. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow to cool, 12 to 15 minutes.
• For the dressing: Combine the olive oil, vinegar, maple syrup, mustard, salt and pepper in a mason jar. Secure the lid and shake to combine. Set aside.
• For the salad: Spread the arugula, kale and spinach over a large round platter, leaving space in the center of the platter (it should look like a holiday wreath). Top the greens with the radicchio. Arrange the mandarin segments over the greens. Sprinkle with the pomegranate seeds, cranberries, blueberries and cooled candied nuts.
• Lastly, sprinkle with the Parmesan, creating the look of snow. Shake the dressing one more time and pour it into a serving bowl. Place the bowl in the center of the platter and serve.

Steps:

• In a skillet, cook and stir walnuts in butter until toasted, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in the sugar, pepper and salt. , In a salad bowl, toss the greens, cranberries, cheese and walnuts., Place the dressing ingredients in a blender or food processor; cover and process until smooth. , Drizzle desired amount over salad; toss to coat. Serve immediately. Refrigerate leftover dressing.

Steps:

• For dressing, place first five ingredients in a blender; cover and process until blended. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream. Add poppy seeds; pulse just until combined. , To serve, place remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Toss with dressing.

Steps:

• In a large bowl, combine fruits; set aside. Whisk sauce ingredients until smooth. Gently fold into fruits. Cover and chill for 3-4 hours before serving.