Warm Portobello-Mushroom and Potato Salad
The salad is wonderful either warm or at room temperature, but the meaty mushrooms are juiciest straight from the broiler. They're great cooked on the grill, too, or in a grill pan. If you want to experiment with different greens, try arugula or Belgian endive.
How to Make It
Heat the broiler. Put the mushroom caps on a baking sheet. In a small bowl, combine the 1/3 cup oil, 1 teaspoon of the thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Pour the mixture over the mushrooms and toss to coat. Broil the mushrooms, turning once, until tender and golden, 6 to 8 minutes per side.
Meanwhile, put the potatoes in a medium saucepan of salted water. Bring to a boil and simmer until tender, 5 to 10 minutes. Drain.
In a small glass or stainless-steel bowl, mix together the mustard, vinegar, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Add the 6 tablespoons oil slowly, whisking. Toss the warm potatoes with 2 tablespoons of the dressing.
In a large bowl, combine the scallions, watercress, and curly endive. Toss with the remaining dressing and then put the greens on a platter or individual plates. Scatter the warm dressed potatoes over the greens. Slice the mushrooms and serve on top of the salad.
Wine Recommendation: Wines made from the sémillon grape are rich, full-bodied, and intense, and yet they are surprisingly compatible with a number of cuisines. Look for one from the Hunter Valley of Australia for an interesting and tasty accompaniment for this salad.
Quick from Scratch Vegetable Main Dishes
