Recipe: Election Day Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

I never met a campaign or an election I didn't like (vote early, vote often)!  I've also got a penchant for theme dinners.  So, what to whip up for an Election Day Dinner when you are a proud Canadian?  I mean, we do have foods that speak to our national identity, but after a week of eating New Orleans-style the thought of indulging in Poutine or Tourtière or Nanaimo Bars makes me break out in a cold sweat.  I needed something lighter.  So tonight I'm test driving an Election Day Salad.

What you'll need:

Greens - I used about 140 grams of Baby Romaine.  Baby Spinach, Spring Mix or Arugula would work equally as well.

12 good sized Strawberries - sliced lengthwise.

Nuts - I used Pecans, but Walnuts or Almonds would work as well.  Chopped and toasted.

Cheese - I used OKA today to highlight the Canadian theme (also, I like the ORANGE BOX).  Asiago would be lovely (I may try that next time) when I'm feeling less...um...patriotic.

For the Vinaigrette:

2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 tablespoon Cider Vinegar
2 tablespoons Pure Maple Syrup
1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
pinch sea salt
a few grinds of fresh pepper

Directions:

It's a salad!  Toss everything together.  Whisk the Vinaigrette together.  Toss the salad with the Vinaigrette.

Done!

Verdict:

I could see serving this on Canada Day too!  Tonight, I'll be eating this from the edge of my seat while we watch the election results come in, along with some of that great French Onion Soup (Holla, Quebec!) and some crusty baguette.  I'm pretty stressed about this election.  Bread will be involved.

Happy Eating and Happy Voting, Everyone!