Watercress, with its peppery taste and crisp texture is the perfect accompaniment to fresh and dried pears mixed with ginger. This salad assembles quickly and has an unusual flavor that nicely complements the rest of the menu.

Ingredients

1/4 cup - crystallized ginger
3 ounces - dried pears
1/2 cup - rice vinegar
2 teaspoons - sugar
3/4 cup - water
2 tablespoons - olive oil
3 - large ripe pears, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
6 cups - washed and torn watercress

Instructions

Place the ginger, dried pears, vinegar, sugar, and water, in a medium microwave proof casserole dish. Microwave on high until the pears are softened and the liquid is reduced, about 8 minutes. Drain the mixture and reserve the liquid. Place the cooked dried pears in a blender and discard the cooked ginger pieces. Measure 1 cup of the cooking liquid, adding additional water if necessary. Add to the cooked pears along with the olive oil. Process until smooth. Spread the watercress on eight individual plates and spread the pear slices over the watercress. Spoon the dressing evenly over the salad.

Preparation Time

Preparation Time : 10 minutes
Cooking Time : 8 minutes
Chilling Time : Optional
Total Time : 18 minutes

Number of Servings

Serves 8

Tips

The dressing can be made up to 24 hours ahead of the serving time.