Watercress and Persimmon Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette

A fresh and elegant salad combining peppery watercress with sweet Fuyu persimmons, dressed in a bright champagne vinaigrette with shallots and lemon zest. Perfect as a light starter or side dish.

6 servings
15 min

Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp Champagne vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp minced shallot
  • 1 tsp grated lemon zest
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 whole firm-ripe Fuyu persimmons
  • 16 cups watercress
  • tough stems

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Whisk together vinegar, shallot, zest, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper in a small bowl. Add oil in a slow stream, whisking until combined well.

    5 min

  2. 2.

    Peel persimmons and cut into 1/3-inch-thick wedges. Toss watercress with persimmons and enough vinaigrette to coat, then season with salt and pepper.

    10 min

  3. 3.

    Vinaigrette can be made 1 day ahead and chilled.