Mâche, Pear, Parmesan, and Wild Mushroom Salad

Mâche is an heirloom green that has a mild, sweet, nutty flavor and succulent texture, making it ideal for salads. The winning combination of pears, mâche, and sauteed mushrooms makes this impressive salad a perfect choice for entertaining.

Ingredients

• Vinaigrette
• 1 ½ tablespoons prepared Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons sherry vinegar
• 3 ounces extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Salad
• ½ pound mushrooms, wild or domestic (lobster, portobello, chanterelle, etc.)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 cups (2 containers) Epic Roots Mâche
• 2 ripe red USA Pears, halved, cored, cut lengthwise in thin slices
• 1 cup (2 ounces) shaved Parmesan cheese
• 1 shallot, peeled and thinly sliced

Directions

For vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk mustard and vinegar until blended. Gradually add olive oil until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.

For salad: Sauté mushrooms in olive oil over medium-low heat until lightly browned. In a large bowl, combine mâche, pears, mushrooms, cheese, and shallots. Toss in vinaigrette, coat thoroughly. Add salt and pepper to taste.

yield: Serves 6 to 8