River Salad Food

HOOD RIVER SALAD

Steps:

• Toast the almonds on medium-low heat in a non stick pan, just until light brown, stirring so they don't burn.
• Make the dressing and shake till sugar is dissolved, then refrigerate.
• You can make this salad an hour or so ahead by tossing the torn romaine, raisins and almonds together. At the last minute add the freshly diced avocado (to keep it from turning brown) and the bacon (to keep it from looking anemic), then toss all with the dressing just before serving.
• TIP: When I've been asked to make this salad on short notice you can use the packaged, REAL (not fake!) bacon crumbles by Hormel. Nobody tastes the difference, including me, so I do this and it's a huge time saver.

GRILLED PANCETTA WRAPPED RIVER FISH WITH THREE CABBAGE-RICE SALAD

Steps:

• Using a sharp knife, score the fish on each side. Season the inside with salt and pepper, and place 2 or 3 lemon slices inside the cavity of the fish. Rub the outside of each fish with the slice of ginger, and season the outside of the fish with salt and pepper. Wrap each fish with enough pancetta to cover the flesh, by laying the pancetta side by side in a shingled rectangle, and rolling the fish up in it.
• Prepare an outdoor grill or preheat the broiler. If cooking outdoors, spray the grill with nonstick cooking spray. Grill the fillets over high heat, turning once, until the pancetta is crispy, about 4 to 6 minutes per side or until the fish is cooked through.
• Plating: On a large oval plate, place a mound of the Three Cabbage Rice Salad and top with fish. Drizzle with a little reserved vinaigrette and sprinkle a dash of paprika on top.
• In a large bowl, combine the mustard, vinegar, chiles, cilantro, and whisk in the oil. Put aside a couple of tablespoons, for garnish.
• Add the cabbage and scallions and toss well. Season with the salt and pepper and allow to rest to flavor, about 3 minutes. Toss with rice and check for seasoning.

RIVER SALAD

Steps:

• Place arugula and onion slices in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper. Serve with shaved parmesan.