Gorgonzola Pear Salad With Merlot Shallot Dressing - cooking recipe

Ingredients

MERLOT SHALLOT DRESSING
1 large shallot, finely minced
2 cups light red wine
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 garlic clove, minced
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
3/4 cup olive oil
salt and pepper, to taste
SALAD
5 ounces mixed baby greens
1/2 cup gorgonzola, crumbled
1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
3 slices smoked bacon, cooked and crumbled (omit for vegetarian version)
1 pear, cored, and chopped (can peel if desired)

Preparation

Combine shallots and wine in a medium sauce pan over high heat. Bring liquid to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until reduced to 1/4 cup, about 20 to 30 minutes.
Let mixture cool completely. Add vinegar, sugar, garlic and mustard. Slowly whisk in olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate dressing until ready to serve.
In a large bowl, mix baby lettuce, cheese, walnuts and bacon. Add pears and toss with Merlot Shallot Dressing just before serving.