Watercress is one of my absolute favorite greens, with its subtle bite and peppery flavor. It pairs well with the sweet cherry dressing, some additional fresh cherries, and slices of buttery avocado. Live watercress (with root systems attached) is now widely available in grocery stores, and all it requires is a quick rinse, removal of the base stems, and a toss in the salad bowl. If you haven’t tried it you will enjoy it as a change of pace from typical salad greens. I have tried to grow watercress but so far have failed, as it really isn’t well adapted to Colorado weather. If any Front Range gardeners have tips for me, please share!
Here is the recipe:
Salad:
1 bunch fresh watercress, rinsed and trimmed
1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced
a dozen or so fresh, sweet cherries, pitted
Cherry Vinaigrette:
1/2 cup pitted sweet cherries
1/3 cup white balsamic vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
pinch of salt
Arrange the salad components on a serving platter. Place the dressing ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Drizzle the finished vinaigrette over the salad, and serve.
Thanks for reading,
-Angela
In love with the idea of cherry vinaigrette! Must try this salad.
Thanks Marla–I think you will like it!
I live in Colorado, which store did you find watercress at? I haven't found it.
I have found it at King Soopers (It comes in a V-shaped plastic bag) in several locations, as well as the "flagship" Safeway in Boulder. It seems to be displayed around the mushrooms, not the lettuce–not sure why…
This is great. I just picked up some local watercress and have the rest of the stuff in the kitchen!
I love the cherry dressing with the watercress–hope you like it!