Pecan-Mandarin Tossed Salad

Name: Pecan-Mandarin Tossed Salad
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 22 servings (1 cup each).
Ingredients: 4-1/2 teaspoons butter; 2 cups pecan halves; 2 tablespoons sugar; 2 bunches romaine, torn; 3 cups seedless red grapes; 2 cups mandarin oranges, drained; 4 celery ribs, chopped; 6 green onions, chopped; DRESSING:; 1 cup canola oil; 1/2 cup white vinegar; 6 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground mustard; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

I enjoy making this fruity, crunchy salad for special events and holiday dinners. Because of its mouthwatering blend of flavors and textures, I’ve been asked to bring the salad for the past 25 years!—Linda Curtis, Ripon, California

Ingredients

4-1/2 teaspoons butter
2 cups pecan halves
2 tablespoons sugar
2 bunches romaine, torn
3 cups seedless red grapes
2 cups mandarin oranges, drained
4 celery ribs, chopped
6 green onions, chopped
DRESSING:
1 cup canola oil
1/2 cup white vinegar
6 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Directions

In a large heavy skillet, melt butter. Add pecans and cook over medium heat until nuts are toasted, about 4 minutes. Sprinkle with sugar. Cook and stir for 2-4 minutes or until sugar is melted. Spread on foil to cool.
In a large salad bowl, combine the romaine, grapes, oranges, celery and green onions.
In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the dressing ingredients; shake well. Drizzle over salad. Add pecans; toss to coat.