CONTEST SALADS:Wilted Pear,Gorgonzola,Bacon&Nuts Green Salad

WILTED GREEN SALAD WITH PEARS, GORGONZOLA CHEESE, BACON AND NUTS
By BumbleBeeBoogie

4 slices bacon, preferably peppered bacon
1-1/2 pound leeks, trimmed, well washed and sliced 1/4-inch thick
2 bunches arugula or 1 large bunch watercress, trimmed
1 small head Boston (butter) lettuce, torn (spinach leaves are also good)
2 medium-size pears, cut into 1/4-inch dice
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
1/2 teaspoon granulated white sugar
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 ounces Gorgonzola or other blue cheese
1/3 coarsely chopped salt-roasted pecans

Cook the bacon in a skillet until crisp. Drain on paper towels. When cool, crumble.

Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings from the skillet. Add the leeks and saute, stirring occasionally, until tender and golden, 5 to 6 minutes.

Combine the arugula, lettuce and pears in a large bowl.

Whisk together the oil, vinegar, sugar and pepper in a small bowl. When the leeks are cooked, add the dressing to the skillet, cooking until heated through. Pour the hot dressing over the lettuce and toss. Sprinkle with the cheese bacon and the pecans. Serve immediately, Serves 6.