Preparation time 15 minutes.

In three steps: Prepare early, combine and serve.

CARAMELIZED ALMONDS:

1/4 c. almonds, halved or slivered
3 tbsp. sugar

Caramelize almonds and sugar. In frying pan on high heat, melt sugar; add almonds and toss until cooked (10 minutes). Watch the almonds to prevent overcooking. Put on foil or wax paper to cool.

SALAD:

1/2 head lettuce, shredded
1 c. chopped celery
1 tbsp. minced parsley
2 green onions, sliced long
1 (11 oz.) can mandarin oranges, drained

Layer and toss at last minute with the mandarin oranges.

DRESSING:

1/2 tsp. salt
2 tbsp. sugar
2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
1/4 c. vegetable or corn oil
Dash Tabasco and pepper

Shake in jar. Pour over lettuce and toss. Garnish with almonds. Serves 4.

From "Best Kept Secrets of Portola Valley Cooks".