Salad Dressings

Caesar (serves 4)

This recipe is the original from Tijuana. The first chef to make this worked in a seafood restaurant just outside the city. This dressing is traditionally made to order.



Ingredients
2 anchovy fillets
1 clove garlic
Juice of two limes
2 egg yolks
1/2 cup olive oil
1/3 cup red wine vinegar.
salt and pepper to taste

Garnish with grated Parmesan


Method

In a wooden bowl grind the anchovy, garlic, and lime juice into a paste. Next add the two egg yolks. Then you need too whisk or stir vigorously for about 3 minutes. The next step is to continue whisking while adding the oil. It is very important to add the oil slowly so that the eggs can absorb the oil. This should take about 5 minutes. Start to whisk slowly and add the red wine vinegar (you may not need the full amount. The way to tell is the eggs will turn from a yellow to a beige. When beige, you have enough vinegar. If the dressing seems a bit thick just add a touch of cold water (maybe 1/2oz). Season to taste with salt and pepper.


This salad is served traditionally over romaine lettuce. (Other firm lettuce may be substituted). Top with grated Parmesan. You may also top with grilled meats and seafood. (Hint, the Halibut Cakes go nicely with this salad dressing). If using romaine I would suggest hearts of romaine and for 4 people use three hearts cut in 1 inch pieces.


Raspberry Peppercorn (serves 4)

Ingredients
1 pint fresh raspberries
1/2 oz grated fresh ginger
1 oz fresh garlic (chopped finely)
1 shallot (chopped finely)
1 Tablespoon fresh green peppercorns (These can be found in your local market. Get the ones in brine).
1 cup olive oil
1/3 cup champagne vinegar
1 hand full fresh basil leaves torn into small pieces
1 oz dry thyme
1 teaspoon dry mustard


Method

Combine all but raspberries in a bowl and whisk for about 5 minutes. Just before serving, add the fruit. I suggest either a nice Gorgonzola or perhaps Goat cheese to top or toss the salad with. This dressing could also be very easily used to garnish a fish or seafood dish. For those longing for the tropics, try using mango's or papayas instead of raspberries. In which case, I would suggest complimenting grilled shrimp, or possibly mahi-mahi, with the tropical dressing.


More dressings and cooking ides coming your way soon!!!!

Tomorrow Irish stew and some ideas to make you feel better when your team loses. GO CUB'S! My wife Nanc says a Cub fan says "Well get them next year"! Hope that you all enjoy these recipes and please feel free to e-mail or comment with any questions, I would be more than happy to help. Also, if you are looking for a particular recipe, post a comment and ask!

Always Cook with Love,

Chef Sean