Grilled Asparagus & Red Pepper Salad

Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

• 1 large red bell pepper
• 1 lb asparagus
• 1 to 2 T olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 small bag (6 to 8 oz.) mixed greens or spinach
• 1/3 C crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
• 1/3 C toasted pecan halves
• Balsamic Dressing (see below)

Directions

1. Heat grill to high. Place whole red pepper on grill over direct heat. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes, until skin is charred and blistered. Place pepper in a covered dish until it's cool enough to handle. Peel skin off, cut top off and remove seeds and ribs. Slice pepper into strips.
2. Trim tough ends off the asparagus and toss it with olive oil, salt and pepper. Place on grill, turning frequently, until slightly charred, about 5 minutes. Asparagus should be crisp-tender, not mushy. Remove from grill and allow to cool to room temperature.
3. Divide the greens among 4 plates. Divide roasted peppers and asparagus into 4 servings and place on top of the greens. Sprinkle each salad with cheese and pecans, and drizzle with balsamic dressing to taste. Serve with extra dressing, pecans and cheese.

Balsamic Dressing

Ingredients

• 2/3 C balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 C olive oil
• 2 T Dijon mustard
• 2 T chopped fresh marjoram (or 2 tsp. dried)
• 2 tsp. minced garlic
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Boil vinegar in small heavy saucepan over medium heat until reduced by half, about 3 minutes. Pour into large bowl. Whisk in olive oil, mustard, marjoram and garlic.
2. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Dressing will thicken as it cools.

recipe from: The Arizona Republic, 08/27/03