Copycat (2.06.2009)

Is copying someone the best form of flattery? When it comes to food, I say YES.

Since going to b-Bistro, I have been dreaming about the salad I had there. It was just the perfect combination of ingredients. As soon as I saw these little guys at Trader Joes, I knew I wanted to try and re-create my experience.

I had to use up the remainder of my Boston Butter Lettuce before it went bad, so I chopped that up and paired it with 2 sliced baby beets, a spoonful of goat cheese (a.k.a. chevre), and candied walnuts. I also whisked together a splash of EVOO and White Wine Vinegar to top my lettuce.

To candy the walnuts, I used a tsp of smart balance, a tsp of brown sugar, and about a 1/4 c of walnuts, which I added to a small frying pan over medium heat. Once it started to get caramelized, I pulled them off and let them cool. The candy coating on the walnuts hardened during the cooling process.

oh. my. goodness. It was close enough to the original for me - I loved it.

I also had some roasted butternut squash on the side.

And then another Skinny Cow Caramel Cone for dessert. I am not a huge ice cream fan, but the inside of these cones are chocolate-lined, and the bottom is solid chocolate. Mm. Mm.

Happy Friday from one of my furry friends!