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–+ servings

Cocoa Nib Vinaigrette and Salad

ACTIVE TIME: 25 minutes
TOTAL TIME: 50 minutes
Yield: 2 servings

Software

Vinaigrette

  • 2 tablespoons cocoa nibs
  • 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons minced shallot
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Salad

  • 8 ounces butter lettuce leaves, torn
  • 1 avocado, pitted, peeled, and diced
  • 2 oranges, supremed
  • 2 ounces dried cherries
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa nibs
  • 1/2 ball fresh mozzarella, small dice

Specialized Hardware

  • Coffee/spice grinder

Procedure

  • For the vinaigrette: Pulse the cocoa nibs in a spice grinder until finely ground, 4 to 5 pulses.
  • Combine the ground cocoa nibs and the olive oil in a 1-quart saucepan and heat on low until warm and fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes. Turn off the heat.
  • Add the vinegar, shallot, salt, and red pepper flakes, and let sit for about 25 minutes.
  • Transfer to a jar, twist on the lid, and shake like crazy.
  • Toss lettuce with vinaigrette to taste. Divide dressed lettuce between 2 serving dishes. Arrange remaining salad ingredients over the lettuce. Serve with any remaining vinaigrette on the side.