Olive-Me & Co Warm Celery, Date & Almond Salad

Recipe adapted from Food & Drink magazine – Spring 2015

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup almonds, chopped
• 3 Tbs any plain Olive-Me & Co  Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• ½ cup chopped Medjool or other soft dates
• 4 stalks celery, thinly sliced on the diagonal
• 1 tsp grated lemon zest
• Salt and freshly ground pepper
• 2 Tbs fresh lemon juice
• 4 cups packed spring-mix greens
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese or chevre

Directions:

1. Toast almonds in a large, dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until golden and fragrant. Immediately transfer to a bowl and set aside.
2. Return skillet to medium-low heat and add 2 Tbs of Olive-Me & Co EVOO and the dates, and sauté 1 minute. Add celery, lemon zest and ¼ tsp each of salt and pepper; sauté for 1 to 2 minutes or until celery is wilted but still tender-crisp. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and remaining 1 Tbs Olive-Me & Co EVOO. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
3. Divide greens among individual salad plates. Top with warm celery mixture and sprinkle with cheese and almonds.