Endive Salad Bites with Pears, Blue Cheese, and Pecans

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 head belgian endive
• 1 medium pear (cored and cut into small cubes (about 1 cup))
• 3 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries (coarsely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh Italian flat leaf parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans*

Instructions

1. 1

   --- Prepare the dressing: ---

2. 2

   Place all dressing ingredients in a mason jar and shake vigorously until combined.

3. 3

   --- Prepare the endive bites: ---

4. 4

   Cut the base off of the head of endive and separate the spears. Wash thoroughly and blot dry gently.

5. 5

   Place the pear, blue cheese, cranberries, and parsley in a small bowl. Add half of the dressing, reserving the other half for another use, and toss gently to combine.

6. 6

   Divide the filling evenly between the endive spears, and top with the pecans just before serving. Enjoy!