Baby Beet Greens with Spicy Mediterranean Vinaigrette

Baby Beet Greens with Spicy Mediterranean Vinaigrette

1/2 teaspoon black mustard seeds

1/4 teaspoon ground coriander

1/8 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 cup carrot juice

2 tablespoons golden raisins

2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar

4 sprigs fresh cilantro

1 tablespoon plain yogurt

1 teaspoon honey

2 teaspoons crushed red pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

Freshly ground pepper to taste

1/4 cup olive oil

1 1/2 cup cubed multigrain bread

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 clove garlic

pinch salt

4 cups baby beet greens

1/4 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup shredded smoked Cheddar

1. Heat mustard seeds, coriander, and cumin in a small dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes. 

2. Add carrot juice and simmer over medium heat until reduced by half, about 3 minutes.

3. Place raisins in a blender and add the hot juice. 

4. Let stand for 5 minutes to plump the raisins. 

5. Then add vinegar, cilantro, yogurt, honey, crushed red pepper, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and pepper and blend until combined. 

6. Pour in 1/4 cup oil and blend until smooth, about 1 minute.

7. Preheat oven to 375°F.

8. Toss bread and 1 teaspoon oil in a medium bowl until well combined. 

9. Spread in a single layer on a large baking sheet. 

10. Bake, stirring once, until golden and crisp, 12 to 15 minutes.

11. Season a wooden salad bowl by rubbing with garlic and pinch of salt. 

12. Chop the garlic and add to the bowl along with greens. 

13. Pour 1/4 cup of the vinaigrette over the greens. 

14. Sprinkle the salad with cranberries, cheese, and the croutons; toss and serve.