Apple Walnut Salad

Recipe From: Laura Watson

Years ago, Nina brought this delicious salad to a family gathering.  Awwhh... how I adore the sweet combination of the apples, feta, and candied walnuts generously bathed in a tarty vinegarette dressing.   For even more sweetness, I'll add a handful of craisins.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter

1 cup walnut halves

1 tablespoon sugar

1/8 teaspoon pepper

5 cups torn romaine

5 cups torn red leaf lettuce

1 medium red apple, chopped

1 medium green apple, chopped

1/2 to 1 cup crumbled feta cheese

Optional: I will add a handful of craisins

DRESSING:

5 Tablespoons olive oil

2 Tablespoons white wine vinegar

2 Tablespoons finely chopped onion

1-1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon sugar

1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon dried parsley flakes

1/8 teaspoon pepper

In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the walnuts; sprinkle with sugar and pepper. Stir until well coated.

Spread onto a baking sheet. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes or until lightly browned, stirring every 5 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl,combine the romaine, red lettuce, apples and feta cheese; set aside. In a blender, combine the dressing ingredients; cover and process until blended. Drizzle over salad; toss to coat. Sprinkle with sugared walnuts. Yield: 12 servings.