Sesame-Almond Romaine Salad

Prep/Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 12 servings

1/2 cup butter, cubed
1 tablespoon sugar
2 packages (3 ounces each) ramen noodles, crushed
1/3 cup sesame seeds
1/4 cup slivered almonds
2 bunches romaine, torn
4 green onions, thinly sliced
DRESSING
3/4 cup olive oil
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce

In a large skillet, melt butter and sugar over medium heat. Add the noodles, sesame seeds and almonds. (Discard seasoning packets from noodles or save for another use.) Cook and stir for 6-8 minutes or until browned; set aside. In a large salad bowl, toss the romaine and onions.

Combine the dressing ingredients and mix well. Just before serving, drizzle over romaine mixture; top with noodle mixture. Toss the coat.

Tips and Tricks
Buy bagged romaine to save time. I am allergic to tree nuts, so I omit the almonds. Cut the green onions with kitchen shears. Find sesame seeds in the Asian foods section of the grocery store.
Make It Healthier
Use low-sodium soy sauce. Use trans-fat free spread in place of butter.
How Kids Can Help
Tear lettuce. Measure dry ingredients. Stir dressing to mix.