Alexander’s restaurant summer watermelon salad

INGREDIENTS FOR THE MARINATED WATERMELON:

• 1 ea. Watermelon, seedless
• 1/2 Cup Grenadine
• 2 Tbsp Red wine vinegar
• 2 ea. Garlic cloves, crushed
• 1.5 Cup Blended oil (75% Canola, 25% Extra Virgin Olive oil)
• 2 tsp Granulated sugar

INGREDIENTS FOR THE SALAD:

• 1 lb. Mixed greens, rinsed
• 4 Tbsp Smoked almonds, crushed
• 6 oz. Ricotta Salata cheese, shaved with a peeler
• 2 oz. Fresh basil, torn by hand

DIRECTIONS:

1. Take the watermelon and remove the rind. Cut the watermelon into bite size pieces. Combine all the ingredients for the marinade, and whisk together. Pour over the watermelon, cover with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
2. For the dressing combine all ingredients, except for the blended oil, in a food processor. Combine until well incorporated. With the processor on, slowly add the oil, until the dressing is emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste with salt, pepper, lemon, and/or sugar.
3. Now it is time for the party to start. Place the marinated watermelon at the base of the plate (sort of like the foundation). In a mixing bowl, mix the greens with the balsamic vinaigrette. Place over the watermelon. Take the torn basil and stud in different areas throughout the salad. Top the salad with the shaved ricotta and sprinkle the smoked almond over the top. This recipe serves 8 people and can be plated “party style” or individually.

   Enjoy!