Thursday, March 1, 2012


homemade pesto spinach salad
homemade pesto, spinach & fresh pea salad

















ok, after the 'classic beef stew,' i had to lighten it up a little bit.  here's my interpretation of ina's pesto pea salad.  this salad is perfect to serve alongside a nice roasted chicken, an omelette, or by itself if you're cooking for one : )

prep time: 20 mins
ingredients:
  • 5 oz fresh baby spinach leaves
  • (1) 10 oz package frozen peas, thawed and drained
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup homemade pesto (recipe follows)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons chopped, toasted macadamia nuts



pesto:
  • 2 oz basil leaves, cleaned and spun dry
  • 1 clove smashed garlic
  • 1/8 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 3 sprigs stripped thyme leaves
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 lemon, juiced
  • kosher salt
  • pepper

combine all pesto ingredients in a small food processor.  blend until you reach a small mince.  add more olive oil if mixture seems dry.  taste once complete and adjust seasonings if needed.

wash and dry spinach leaves.  mix peas and spinach in large bowl, add pesto and half the parmesan.  mix all together gently with your hands or salad tongs.  sprinkle top with macadamia nuts and remaining parmesan and serve.

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