Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 14 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 14 teaspoon cumin
  • 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • 12 peeled chopped granny smith apple
  • 1 shallot
  • 14 cup vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 23 cup corn oil
  • 13 cup walnut oil
  • salt and freshly ground pepper
  • 12 sliced small red onion, separated into rings
  • 8 ounces green beans
  • salt
  • 8 ounces baby mixed greens
  • 8 ounces seedless red grapes
  • 2 ripe unpeeled pears, cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch slices
  • freshly ground pepper
  • 8 ounces Roquefort cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

Method

  • For the pecans, combine the brown sugar, cayenne pepper and cumin in a bowl and mix well.
  • Stir in the oil.
  • Add the pecans and toss to coat.
  • Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  • Toast at 350 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes or until light brown, stirring once.
  • Let stand until cool.
  • You may prepare up to 2 days in advance and store in an airtight container.
  • For the vinaigrette, process the apple and shallot in a blender or food processor until smooth.
  • Add the vinegar and sugar.
  • Process until blended.
  • Add the corn oil and walnut oil gradually, processing constantly until creamy.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Use immediately or store covered in the refrigerator.
  • Shake well before using.
  • For the salad, soak the onion in cold water or wine vinegar in a bowl.
  • Blanch the beans in boiling salted water in a saucepan until tender-crisp; drain.
  • Rinse with cold water until cool; drain.
  • Toss the pecans, drained onion, beans, mixed greens, grapes and pears in a salad bowl.
  • Add half the vinaigrette and toss gently until coated.
  • Sprinkle with salt and pepper; Crumble the cheese over the top and toss to mix.
  • Sprinkle with the chives.
  • Serve with the remaining vinaigrette.