arugula salad with dates & apples

I realized the other day that I haven't done a food post in a while. I have cooked a few things this summer despite the insane heat, but nothing was really blog worthy. It is quite maddening when I get really excited to share a recipe and it comes out terribly, or tastes good but doesn't photograph well AT ALL. But this little nugget of goodness and prettiness is perfect to share. It was inspired by a most magnificent salad we had at Purple Palm in Palm Springs. My sister and I are still talking about how amazing it was. It was THAT good.



The one main difference is Purple Palm used a pistachio vinaigrette. I'm not sure how to recreate that, so here's my version. As usual, I didn't measure anything so the amounts are very very loose. Go with what tastes best.

Ingredients

Arugula (one 5 oz. box)
1/2 a green apple, peeled & chopped into tiny pieces
4-5 dates, pitted & chopped into small pieces
1-3 T Honey
1/4 c good olive oil (Olave is my favorite)
2-3 T champagne vinegar
Splash of fresh lemon juice
Grated manchego
Salt & pepper to taste

Directions

In a small bowl, mix 1/2 of the chopped dates, honey, olive oil, champagne vinegar, and lemon juice. Really mash up the dates so their juices come out. Taste and adjust ingredients if necessary. In a large bowl, combine arugula, chopped apples, and remaining dates. Mix in dressing, add salt & pepper, and top with lots of grated manchego.

YUM. I was licking my bowl.