Winter Salad

It's still October, but I can feel winter's cold breath on my cheeks when I bike to work in the morning. And while most people wouldn't be excited about crafting up a salad for dinner this time of year, I think that's pretty much a perfect choice.

No, I'm not crazy or having a hot flash. I just mean a different kind of salad than a bright summer salad. I'm not using juicy, grilled peaches or fresh off the vine cherry tomatoes, instead I'm using cooler weather ingredients to make my perfect winter salad. It's full of bright citrus, bitter radicchio, walnuts, and dates. To me, it's a perfect winter salad and the thought of it gets me through those chilly winter bike rides (especially when it's paired with a glass of white wine!)

Winter Citrus and Date Salad - serves 4

1 heart of Romaine, torn

1/2 small head of radicchio, torn 

2 avocados, cubed

2 navel oranges, segmented and juice from trimmings squeezed and reserved 

2/3 cup dates, roughly chopped

2/3 cup walnuts, roughly chopped 

2 tablespoons oil

2 tablespoons lime juice 

1/4 teaspoon salt

1. Toss together both kinds of lettuce. 

2. Add in avocado, orange segments, dates, and walnuts. Toss gently to mix. 

3. Whisk together reserved orange juice, oil, lime juice, and salt. Pour over salad and toss gently to mix. 

4. Serve and enjoy!