Information
Notes
This may sound like an odd combination, but it’s one of the most popular summer salads served over the years at my namesake restaurant, John Ash & Company, in Sonoma County, California. Fresh blueberries or blackberries make a wonderful and colorful addition to this salad.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon minced shallots or green onions, white part only
- ¼ cup raspberry vinegar or other fruit vinegar
- ¼ cup raspberry puree made from fresh or unsweetened frozen berries, pureed and strained
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice
- 2 teaspoons honey
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Kosher or sea salt and freshly ground pepper
- 2 medium sweet red onions, sliced ¼ inch thick and soaked in ice water for at least 30 minutes
- 2 small bunches watercress, woody stems discarded
- 8 cups seeded 1-inch cubes watermelon, chilled (use both red and yellow watermelon, if available)
- 6 large ripe fresh figs, sliced or quartered (optional)
- Chopped fresh mint leaves for garnishing
Directions
In a medium bowl, whisk together the shallots, vinegar, raspberry puree, orange juice, honey, and olive oil to make a smooth mixture. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Drain the onions, pat dry, and separate into individual rings. Transfer the onion rings to a medium bowl and pour the vinaigrette over. Marinate the onions for at least 30 minutes covered in the refrigerator.
On chilled plates, arrange the watercress and top with the cubed watermelon. Arrange the onions and figs attractively around and drizzle the vinaigrette over. Sprinkle mint leaves over the top and serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is based on 1/8 teaspoon added salt per serving.