Cork & Fork: Salad Pairings

"No phone, a movie, a glass of wine, and some salad. Perfect!" - Kate Moss

It is officially salad season you guys! Now that the warmer months are here, I typically like to eat a little bit lighter. Since I'm eating a lot more salads lately, I've been enjoying pairing wines with my light and healthy meals. I have been sipping on Rose/Blush wines and Sauvignon Blanc lately! The wines I'm featuring today I've had at some of my favorite restaurants, and fell in love with them. Whenever we find a new wine at a restaurant that is amazing, G will search for them at Total Wine to see if they are in stock. We have been doing this for years, and really like and pick up a few bottles of our faves.

Today I'm pairing two of my easy at home salads with some amazing wines from Total Wine. 

Pan Seared Scallops and Bacon Salad

Pan Seared Scallops, Red Cabbage, Arugula, and Bacon Salad with a Lemon and Olive Oil Viniagerette

Pan Seared Scallops, Red Cabbage, Arugula, and Bacon Salad with a Lemon and Olive Oil Viniagerette

The pan seared scallop salad paired with bacon, arugula, and red cabbage, is so delicious. I love whipping this up when I'm in the mood for some seafood. I typically dress this salad with a lemon, olive oil vinaigrette, and a little bit of cracked pepper. 

This salad goes perfect with a Rose from South Africa that is super crisp and refreshing. It is medium bodied, slightly dry, and pairs really well with the bacon. Also, the citrus and berry notes compliment this dish so well. I absolutely love sipping this wine by itself or with a meal!

Avocado Caprese Salad

Avocado Caprese Salad - Fresh Mozzarella, Basil, Tomatoes, Cracked Pepper, Olive Oil, Balsamic Reduction

Avocado Caprese Salad - Fresh Mozzarella, Basil, Tomatoes, Cracked Pepper, Olive Oil, Balsamic Reduction

Caprese salad is one of my absolute favorites, and I practically order it at every restaurant G take me too. So, I decided to take a stab on re-creating this yummy dish at home. Also, I decided to add a little bit of avocado on top with some cracked pepper!

The perfect wine for this dish is a refreshing, crisp Sauvignon Blanc. This specific wine has notes of lemon, lime, grapefruit and fresh cut grass followed by flavors of gooseberry and tangerine notes. It's a little tart and really balances well with this dish!

Enjoy!

XO, Analise