Heirloom Lettuces with Benne Seed Dressing

Preheat the oven to 375°. Spread the benne seeds on a baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, stirring once, until browned and fragrant. Transfer 1/2 cup of the seeds to a mini food processor and let cool; reserve the remaining 1 tablespoon of seeds for garnish. Add the lemon zest and juice and 1/4 cup of cold water and puree until a paste forms. With the machine on, drizzle in 1/2 cup of the olive oil. Season the dressing with salt and white pepper.

In a medium skillet, melt the butter in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the panko and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until golden, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and white pepper; let cool completely.

In a large bowl, toss the lettuce with the dressing and season lightly with salt. Sprinkle the toasted panko on top, garnish with the reserved 1 tablespoon of toasted benne seeds and serve.

The dressing can be refrigerated overnight.