Organic Mixed Green Salad with Strawberries, Goat Cheese, and Hazelnuts

Tart, tender, crunchy, and sweet, this simple salad captures Aurora Bistro’s edible artistry.

1 lb (500 g) fresh organic strawberries
1 1/2 cups (375 mL) grapeseed oil
1/2 cup (125 mL) red wine vinegar
1 Tbsp (15 mL) chopped shallots
4 cups (1 L) organic greens, washed and dried
1/4 cup (60 mL) hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
1 oz (30 g) soft goat cheese, crumbled

Stem and halve strawberries; then spread on baking tray. Dry overnight in oven set to lowest setting. Puree dried strawberries with vinegar, oil, and shallots until smooth.

Chill 4 plates. In mixing bowl, combine greens with hazelnuts and goat cheese. Gently mix all ingredients. Divide among chilled plates. Drizzle with Strawberry Dressing. Serves 4.

source: "Open to Inspiration", alive #284, June 2006