Arugula and Radicchio with Feta and Dates

Wishy-washy greens needn't apply: A gorgeously balanced symphony of peppery and bitter greens, cut with a lemony vinaigrette that makes the feta go creamy, and an occasional pop of sticky, sweet date, this is sure to become your go-to salad all summer.

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup pitted dates
• 1/4 pound baby arugula (8 cups)
• 1 (3/4-pound) head radicchio, torn into bite-size pieces (6 cups)
• 3 ounces crumbled feta (1/2 cup)

Whisk together lemon juice, oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl until combined well.

Halve dates lengthwise and thinly slice crosswise.

Toss together arugula, radicchio, feta, and dates in a large bowl, then toss with enough vinaigrette to coat.

online reviewer's comment: I have to confess that I normally dislike radicchio and love arugula, but after receiving a head of radicchio in my CSA share, I decided to make this salad, thinking the peppery arugula would mask the bitterness of the radicchio. To my surprise, the salad was a perfect balance of salty, sweet, bitter and tangy. The only change I made was to use grilled halloumi cheese, rather than feta, and I recommend that you do the same! I can't imagine that feta would have been any better.

from Epicurious.com

Arugula and Radicchio Salad with Sesame-Scallion Vinaigrette

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 scallion
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 head radicchio
• 1 bunch arugula

In a small skillet heat 1 tablespoon oil over moderate heat until hot but not smoking and cook sesame seeds, stirring, until pale golden, about 1 minute. Mince scallion and in a small bowl whisk together with sesame seeds, remaining tablespoon oil, vinegar, mustard, and salt and pepper to taste until emulsified. Tear radicchio into bite-size pieces and in a bowl toss together with arugula and vinaigrette.

Serves 2

from Epicurious.com

from a reviewer: This is a fabulous recipe. The dressing is unusual and memorable. I've been serving it for years and ALWAYS receive raves from guests. It doubles easily.