The secret ingredient in the dressing is grated apple. You would you never guess it from a bite of this dressing, since it’s not at all sweet or fruity, just perfectly balanced and lip-smackingly delicious. Its slight pulp extends the unctuous richness of avocado and complements the clean assertiveness of watercress.
ingredients
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar (not seasoned)
- 1 tablespoon grated sweet onion such as Vidalia or Walla Walla (use large holes of a box grater)
- 1/4 cup finely grated peeled Gala apple (use small holes of box grater)
- 4 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 6 cups watercress (thin stems and leaves only; from 1 large bunch)
- 1 firm-ripe avocado
preparation
Stir together vinegar, onion, apple, soy sauce, and sugar until sugar has dissolved, then stir in oil.
Just before serving, toss watercress with enough dressing to coat. Quarter, pit, and peel avocado, then cut crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Gently toss with watercress.
