Recipe: Twisted Nicoise Salad with Black Olive Vinaigrette

Twisted Nicoise Salad with Black Olive Vinaigrette

Black Olive Vinaigrette:
1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, rinsed
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 1/2 teaspoons chopped basil
1 1/2 teaspoons chopped parsley
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Twisted Nicoise:
1 1/3 pounds small yellow-flesh potatoes, cut in half
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and black pepper
1/2 pound green beans, trimmed
4 cups baby salad greens
3/4 pound ripe red tomatoes, sliced
1 pound grilled chicken breast, cut in strips
1/4 cup grated provolone cheese
1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives

To make vinaigrette, combine olives, water, vinegar, basil, parsley and pepper in food processor bowl or blender jar; process or blend until pur ed. With motor running, slowly pour in oil.

In medium saucepan, cook potatoes in 2 inches simmering water, covered, 25 to 30 minutes or until tender. Drain potatoes and return them to saucepan; shake over low heat 1 to 2 minutes to dry thoroughly. Crush potatoes with fork, leaving some large chunks; stir in oil and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

In large saucepan, bring 2 quarts water to a boil; add 1 tablespoon salt. Drop in beans; boil about 3 minutes or until cooked but still slightly crunchy. Drain beans; drop into bowl of ice water to cool quickly; drain and set aside.

Toss greens with 4 tablespoons vinaigrette and divide among 4 large plates or shallow bowls. Arrange potatoes, tomatoes, beans and chicken around greens, dividing them equally; drizzle with remaining vinaigrette. Sprinkle cheese on top; garnish with olives.

Tip: Shred smoked chicken or leftover roast chicken and use in place of grilled chicken.

Makes 4 servings
Recipe created by Chef Tommy Golden of Beach Grass Cafe, San Diego, CA
Source: United States Potato Board