Mixed Lettuces with Orange Vinaigrette and Candied Pecans

• Recipe by Russ Pillar

Ingredients

1. 1 1/2 cups pecan halves (6 ounces)
2. 3 tablespoons sugar
3. 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
4. 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
5. Kosher salt
6. 1 head each of butter and red leaf lettuces, torn into bite-size pieces
7. Seeds from 1 large pomegranate
8. 3 tablespoons Champagne or white wine vinegar
9. 1 tablespoon finely grated orange zest
10. 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
11. Freshly ground pepper

Directions

1. In a nonstick skillet, toast the pecans over moderately low heat, stirring, until golden, 8 minutes. Add the sugar, maple syrup, cayenne and a pinch of salt and stir until coated, 2 minutes; let cool. 
2. In a large bowl, toss the lettuces with the pomegranate seeds. In a small bowl, combine the vinegar and orange zest. Whisk in the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss the salad with the dressing, add the pecans and serve.