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Watercress Salad W Grilled Onions & Candied Walnuts

Watercress Salad W Grilled Onions & Candied Walnuts recipe image
This vibrant salad balances the sharp bite of fresh watercress with the smoky sweetness of grilled red onions and bell peppers. The dressing, made with walnut oil and white wine vinegar, adds a nutty depth that complements the greens perfectly. For texture and flavor contrast, candied walnuts tossed in a hint of cayenne and sugar provide a delightful crunch. Its a refreshing yet satisfying dish, ideal for summer picnics, light lunches, or as a sophisticated side to grilled meats. The combination of charred vegetables and fresh herbs makes this salad both visually appealing and deliciously complex.
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 4
Calories: 569.5
Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegan, Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant salad balances the sharp bite of fresh watercress with the smoky sweetness of grilled red onions and bell peppers. The dressing, made with walnut oil and white wine vinegar, adds a nutty depth that complements the greens perfectly. For texture and flavor contrast, candied walnuts tossed in a hint of cayenne and sugar provide a delightful crunch. Its a refreshing yet satisfying dish, ideal for summer picnics, light lunches, or as a sophisticated side to grilled meats. The combination of charred vegetables and fresh herbs makes this salad both visually appealing and deliciously complex.
Ingredients
  • 4 tablespoon Vegetable oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoon Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Walnut halves
  • 6 tablespoon Walnut oil
  • 3 tablespoon White wine vinegar
  • 3 tablespoon Chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 small Red onion, peeled, cut into thick wedges
  • 1 medium Red bell pepper, seeded, cut into strips
  • 1 medium Yellow bell pepper, seeded, cut into strips
  • 2 bunches Fresh watercress, trimmed and washed
  • To taste Salt and black pepper
Directions
  1. 1
    Preheat a barbecue or grill to medium-high heat.
  2. 2
    In a heavy large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
  3. 3
    Add the cayenne pepper and sugar to the skillet, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  4. 4
    Add the walnut halves and stir constantly until they are coated and lightly toasted.
  5. 5
    Using a slotted spoon, transfer the candied walnuts to a foil-lined sheet to cool.
  6. 6
    In a medium bowl, whisk together the walnut oil, white wine vinegar, and 3 tablespoons of chopped cilantro until well blended.
  7. 7
    Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. 8
    Combine the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, red onion wedges, and bell pepper strips in a large bowl.
  9. 9
    Season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. 10
    Grill the vegetables until they are tender and blackened in spots, turning occasionally.
  11. 11
    Transfer the grilled vegetables to a large serving bowl.
  12. 12
    Add the fresh watercress to the bowl with the grilled vegetables.
  13. 13
    Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  14. 14
    Arrange the salad on a platter and garnish with the candied walnuts.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 569.5kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 57.0g88%
Saturated Fat 7.5g38%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 2.1mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 14.2g5%
Dietary Fiber 2.5g10%
Sugars 9.3g
Protein 4.9g10%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: watercress, salad, grilled onions, candied walnuts, bell peppers, walnut oil, vinegar dressing, summer salad, vegan, healthy side dish, grilled vegetables, cilantro, smoky, crunchy, fresh herbs, picnic food, light lunch
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/watercress-salad-w-grilled-onions-candied-walnuts/