Cranberry Pecan Salad

The health benefits of eating fresh nuts are widely recognized. Nuts are a rich source of nutrients and contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats as well as proteins and carbohydrates. Fresh nuts also provide a wide selection of vitamins and the minerals iron and zinc. Cranberries provide plenty of vitamin C and carotenes.

1 head green leaf lettuce, shredded
2 spring onions, chopped
1 cup (250 mL) fresh pecans
1 cup (250 mL) dried cranberries
1 Tbsp (15 mL) parsley, chopped
6 snow peas or green beans (optional)

Dressing:
1/4 cup (60 mL) olive oil or cold-pressed nut oil
3 Tbsp (45 mL) orange juice
1/2 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp (5 mL) maple syrup
1/2 tsp (2 mL) sea salt

To prepare dressing, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, garlic, maple syrup, and salt in small jar or bowl.

Place lettuce on large platter or serving bowl, and add green onions, pecans, and ranberries. Garnish with parsley and snow peas, if desired. When ready to serve, drizzle with dressing.

Serves 8.

source: "Easy Traditional Elegance", alive #278, December 2005