This dish is all about the complimentary flavor partnership between endive and apples: a bit of bitter meets a bit of sweet, which takes the edge off of both! Go for some dramatic effect in your presentation by really creating some height when assembling.
Endive and Apples
Serves 4-6
Vinaigrette:
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
Sea salt and pepper to taste.
Whisk vigorously until creamy. Set aside.
1⁄2 red bell pepper, julienned
1⁄2 yellow bell pepper, julienned
1⁄2 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
3 heads red and green Belgian endive
3⁄4-1 cup feta cheese
1⁄2 red apple
1⁄2 green apple
Heat a dry sauté pan over medium high. Pour in olive oil. Add peppers and sauté, stirring occasionally, just until they are fork tender and beginning to brown. Remove from heat, and stir in the basil. Let sit until other ingredients are prepared.
Thinly slice apples and endive, lengthwise. Mix together along with three tablespoons of feta. Dress salad, coating well but not overdressing.
To serve, circle each plate with warm peppers. Sprinkle peppers with a bit of feta. Add salad to the center of each plate, and top with additional feta, if desired.