#MenuMonday: Spinach, Pear, and Chicken Salad

#MenuMonday: Spinach, Pear, and Chicken Salad

This Spinach, Pear and Chicken Salad is the perfect first course for any spring event.  It’s fresh, flavorful and simply delicious.  This recipe from Food Network is easy to make.  You won’t have to worry about putting a large amount of time aside to make this dish for your guests.  Your guests will love this Spinach, Pear and Chicken Salad and you will too.  It will remind everyone that spring is here and the beach weather will be here soon.

Ingredients

• 1 large skinless, boneless chicken breast (about 12 ounces)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
• 3 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons whole-grain mustard
• 8 cups baby spinach (about 5 ounces)
• 4 endives, cut lengthwise into thin wedges
• 1/3 cup almonds, toasted and roughly chopped
• 1 pear, thinly sliced 
• 1/4 cup shredded gruyere cheese

Directions

1. Slice the chicken breast in half horizontally to make 2 thin cutlets; season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1/2 tablespoon olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until lightly golden and cooked through, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate to cool, then thinly slice.
3. Meanwhile, combine the cranberries, vinegar and 1 tablespoon water in a small microwave-safe bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave 45 seconds to plump the cranberries. Let cool.
4. Whisk the cranberry-vinegar mixture, lemon juice, mustard, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste in a large bowl. Whisk in the remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil in a slow stream until blended. Add the chicken, spinach, endives, almonds, pear, about half of the cheese, and salt and pepper to taste; toss to combine. Divide among bowls and top with the remaining cheese.

Yield: 4 servings

Total Time: 25 minutes

Original Recipe: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/spinach-pear-and-chicken-salad-recipe

Make sure to let us know if you enjoyed this mouthwatering Spinach, Pear and Chicken Salad!

Check back on www.bctent.com/blog every Monday for a #MenuMonday party food or beverage recipe!