Recipe: Spinach and Fresh Fig Salad

Spinach and Fresh Fig Salad
Source: Better Homes and Gardens

3 tablespoons rice vinegar
3 tablespoons walnut oil
2 tablespoons snipped fresh mint
1 small clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/8 teaspoon salt
6 cups torn fresh spinach
1/3 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
Walnut Oil Vinaigrette:
6 fresh figs, quartered lengthwise
1 red grapefruit, peeled and sliced crosswise
3 ounces semisoft fresh goat cheese (chevre), broken into chunks

For the vinaigrette, in a blender container or food-processor bowl, combine rice vinegar, walnut oil, mint, garlic, pepper, and salt. Cover, blend or process until nearly smooth; set aside.

Combine fresh spinach and toasted walnuts in a large bowl. Drizzle spinach mixture with vinaigrette; toss gently to coat. Divide spinach mixture among six chilled bowls or plates. Arrange figs and grapefruit slices on greens. Add goat cheese.

Makes 6 side-dish servings