Thursday, June 14, 2012

Busy week at the Buzz.  Had two wine dinners, focusing on picnic foods and fun day trips in Idaho.  All the foods were transportation friendly but still a little on the exotic side.  Per request I am beginning to post the recipes.  My favorite dish of the night was a terrific salad that I found some inspiration from on Cooking Light.  Always trying to eat healthy but still yummy.  Thanks to Bob Young for the gun picture.  So here goes the recipe:

Dressing:
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons pomegranate infused balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Molasses
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • two shakes tabasco
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
Salad:
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup uncooked couscous
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 2 chopped green onions 
  • 1 diced cucumber
  • 2 diced tomatoes
  • chopped fresh parsley for garnish
  • Chopped Romain Lettuce
  • salt and pepper to taste

Put all the dressing ingredients into a food processor and process until mixed through.  Will keep in the fridge for about 5 days in an airtight container. 
Place the broth in the microwave and heat on high for 3 minutes.  Remove and stir in the couscous.  Let stand 10 minutes and fluff with a fork.  Cool.  Meanwhile combine carrots, green onions, cucumber, and  tomatoes in a large bowl.  Toss well.  Once the couscous is cooled place on top of the veggie mix pour the dressing over it and toss well.  Place the romaine on a plate and top with the couscous mixture.  Garnish with parsley.  


We enjoyed this with 2011 Apaltagua Chardonnay (Chile) 13.5% alcohol.  
2011 Reserva Chardonnay (winemakers notes)
These Chardonnay grapes come from personally selected vineyards in the Casablanca Valley. This region is known for the strong maritime influence and for being the first valley in Chile to receive cold weather, making it ideal for the production of white wines.

The Reserva Chardonnay has a golden color and is fresh and clean to the nose. It is characterized by notes of vanilla, cream and banana. In the mouth, it is crisp, dry and refreshing.



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