silly season salad

It was a Monday this week in which I had to do an emergency water-bottle purchase at the dairy en route to the bus stop before work. Having a case of the dries on a Monday shouldn't be that surprising at this time of year, but I'm pretty sure I was still recovering yesterday. It had been a busy weekend, which involved multiple spells of sun-drenched cider-drinking. Friday I had off from work in which to write a column and execute a dinner party, both of which went very well. You'll have to just wait and see about the column, and the dinner party? The dinner party I would like to have a little brag about, when I am not quite so tired (soon!).

I had some friends over for dinner last night though, and wonderfully, they brought half the dinner with them. Some family-farm schnitzel, a quinoa and pomegranate and lemon salad - so good. And from me? Some sausages I acquired recently from new favourite the Grey Lynn Butchery - I met Lucia the other day and she sent me off with a bag to try. So far my favourite is the venison and red wine, but the beef and blue cheese proved very popular last night too. But my main contribution to go with the meat last night was a big ol' bowl of greens. Essential at this time of year, and bloody delicious.

December Greens

2 bunches asparagus
1 head broccoli
1 packet snow peas
rocket
balsamicy-mustard-olive oil-s+p-lemon juice dressing
feta
lightly toasted almonds

In short, you chop the asparagus and grill it with olive oil, s+p and a sprinkle of chilli powder or flakes. Meanwhile, you heat a frying pan with a little oil, add the broccoli and a splash of water, mix it around a bit, then add the snow peas. Cook until, well, cooked, but also so they retain a bit of crunch. Chuck the rocket in a bowl, add the asparagus and the broccoli and snow peas, crumble over some feta, add the almonds and then dress with the dressing.

It will make you feel healthy and virtuous, and it looks great both in a bowl and on your plate. I'm also pretty sure a big pile of this salad will completely cancel out three quarters of a bottle of wine in terms of calories. Tis the season!