INGREDIENTS

    Fig Vinaigrette
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
  • 5 dried black figs , stemmed and coarsely chopped
  • 10 tablespoons water (1/2 cup plus 2 T)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons shallots , minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme , minced
  • 1 garlic clove , minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

    • Salad Mixings

  • 6 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1 1/2 cups bosc pears , thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
  • candied walnuts (optional)
  • grape tomatoes , chopped (optional)

DIRECTIONS

  1. Combine balsamic vinegar and figs in a small saucepan over high heat, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer until reduced to 1/3 cup: about 5 minutes.
  2. Combine the fig mixture, water, and lemon juice in a blender, and process until smooth.
  3. Place the fig mixture in a small bowl. Stir in shallots, thyme, and garlic. Add olive oil and salt; stir well with a whisk.
  4. To serve:Drizzle enough dressing on the greens to coat.Place the greens on 6 salad plates and top with pear and goat cheese.