Asian Pear and Watercress Salad with Sesame Dressing

For dressing
1 (1/2-inch-thick) slice peeled fresh ginger
1/4 cup Asian sesame paste* or smooth peanut butter
3 tablespoons Asian sesame oil*
1/4 cup rice vinegar (not seasoned)
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon Asian chile paste with garlic*
1/2 teaspoon salt
For salad
1 1/2 lb Asian pear (1 large or 2 medium)
4 cups trimmed watercress sprigs (from 2 bunches; 10 oz)
1 carrot, finely shredded
1 orange, peeled and segmented

Make dressing:
Blend all dressing ingredients in a blender until smooth.

Prepare salad:
Peel pear and cut into 1/8- to 1/4-inch-thick julienne, then transfer to a bowl.

Combine watercress and pear in a bowl, then season with salt and pepper and toss gently. Divide among plates, then drizzle with some dressing and sprinkle with carrot. Top with orange in a decorative pattern.

Serves: 4

Source: Gourmet magazine, July 2001

Prepared by: Margo for the November 2010 meeting.