Fireman's Salad

Although I’m not too sure where the name of this salad comes from I do know that I was lucky enough to come across it when a neighbor brought it over to a court picnic a couple years back. As I said before it is a favorite!  Anytime I’ve made it for a party I am always asked for the recipe.  Its simple and easy but full of flavor! What more can you ask for!! Even though it calls for making your own candied almonds,  don't get nervous......it is soooooo easy and much cheaper than buying them. Enjoy!

Fireman’s Salad

2 heads Romain hearts, chopped into bite size pieces

1 head Iceberg lettuce, chopped into bite size pieces

1 bunch Green onions, sliced (white and green)

1/2 can Chow mein noodles (5oz can)

1/4 cup Sunflower seeds

4-6 oz Sliced almonds

2 Tbsp Butter

2 Tbsp Sugar

Dressing:

1/2 cup Canola oil

1/4 cup Red wine vinegar

1/4 cup Sugar

1 heaping Tbsp Jane’s Crazy Mixed-up Salt (see below for picture)

Make dressing ahead of time so it has a few hours to meld flavors together. 

Mix together canola oil, red wine vinegar, 1/4 cup sugar and Jane’s Crazy Mixed-up Salt into a plastic container with lid (I like to use a plastic squeeze bottle that can later be used for serving).  Shake until mixed well and refrigerate.

Make candied almonds ahead of time as well to give them time to cool.  You can even make these the night before.  

Melt butter and sugar in a pan on medium heat.  Once butter is melted add the sliced almonds. Stir to coat.  Cook until edges begin to brown stirring periodically.  The edges begin to brown quickly so do not walk away from them.  They are quick and they are easy but they are also easy to burn.  Remove pan from burner after they are finished or they will continue to brown a.k.a burn.

Right before serving toss together lettuce, green onions, chow mein noodles, sunflower seeds, almonds and dressing.

Tip: I always go a little light on the dressing when I toss it into the salad.  I figure everyone can always add more later.

Tip: Try adding some fresh fruit to this salad like mandarine oranges or fresh raspberries. Also you can make it a little more filling by adding a protein like grilled chicken.

Tip: Jane’s Crazy Mixed-up Salt can be found in most supermarkets down their spice aisle.  To make it easier here is a picture of the container.