Tempeh Nicoise Salad

Serves 6 to 8

This vegan version of the classic Niçoise salad features marinated tempeh in place of traditional tuna. The potatoes and green beans can be cooked ahead of time and chilled. Assemble the salad just before serving.

Ingredients

Vinaigrette Dressing
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon sugar
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Salad
2 (8-ounce) packages tempeh, cut into (1-inch) cubes
1 pound small red potatoes
2/3 pound green beans, trimmed
1 cup pitted Niçoise or Kalamata olives
1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
2 teaspoons capers, drained
6 cups mixed baby greens
1/4 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley (optional)

Method

To prepare the vinaigrette dressing, whisk together vinegar, shallot, mustard, oregano and sugar in a wide, shallow dish. Gradually drizzle in olive oil, whisking constantly until combined and slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer half of the dressing to a small bowl and set aside, then add tempeh to remaining dressing in dish, toss well, cover and chill for 30 to 60 minutes.

Meanwhile, place potatoes in a medium pot, cover with salted water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer until tender, 12 to 15 minutes; drain and set aside to let cool. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add green beans and cook until just tender, 3 to 4 minutes; rinse in cold water and drain well.

Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange tempeh on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake, tossing halfway through, until golden brown, 15 to 20 minutes. Let cool slightly and then toss with reserved dressing, olives, tomatoes and capers.

To serve, divide greens, potatoes and green beans among plates, top with tempeh mixture and parsley and serve.

Nutrition

Per serving: 270 calories (140 from fat), 15g total fat, 2.5g saturated fat, 15g protein, 23g total carbohydrate (4g dietary fiber, 3g sugar), 0mg cholesterol, 390mg sodium

http://wholefoodsmarket.com/recipes/2172