Roasted Parsnip and Carrot Salad with Pomegranate Serves 4 (as a side dish) From http://commonplacekitchen.blogspot.com; Adapted from Food Network Kitchens Ingredients: 2 large carrots (about 12 ounces) 2 parsnips (about 10-12 ounces) 1/2 medium red onion, chopped Zest of 1/2 orange Juice of 1 orange 1/2 cup peanuts 1 tablespoon ginger, peeled and grated 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (see note below re substitution) 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves 1 cup pomegranate juice OR seeds of 1 ripe pomegranate Method: Preheat oven to 350. Peel parsnips and carrots and chop into pieces about 1/2 to 3/4 inch on each side. Mix all ingredients except the cilantro and pomegranate, making sure the oil and spices are evenly distributed. Pour into a roasting dish and put in oven. Cook for about 40 minutes or until parsnips and carrots are soft, stirring halfway through. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. While the veggies are roasting, pour the peanuts into a shallow dish (a pie tin works perfectly) and toast in oven for about 5 minutes, or until slightly browned. To make the pomegranate "dressing" - Pour the pomegranate juice into a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Boil until juice has at least halved in volume and begun to thicken. Remove from heat. Stir cilantro leaves into vegetables. Top with the peanuts and drizzle with the pomegranate (or sprinkle pomegranate seeds on top). Serve while still slightly warm. |