Gorgonzola Pear Salad With Merlot Shallot Dressing

Total Time: 40 mins Preparation Time: 10 mins Cook Time: 30 mins

Ingredients

• 1 large shallot, finely minced
• 2 cups light red wine
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
• 3/4 cup olive oil
• salt and pepper, to taste
• 5 ounces mixed baby greens
• 1/2 cup gorgonzola, crumbled
• 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
• 3 slices smoked bacon, cooked and crumbled (omit for vegetarian version)
• 1 pear, cored, and chopped (can peel if desired)

Recipe

• 1 combine shallots and wine in a medium sauce pan over high heat. bring liquid to a boil. reduce heat to medium and simmer until reduced to 1/4 cup, about 20 to 30 minutes.
• 2 let mixture cool completely. add vinegar, sugar, garlic and mustard. slowly whisk in olive oil. season with salt and pepper. refrigerate dressing until ready to serve.
• 3 in a large bowl, mix baby lettuce, cheese, walnuts and bacon. add pears and toss with merlot shallot dressing just before serving.