Romaine and Avocado Salad with Anchovy Garlic Vinaigrette

When she has the kitchen all to herself, Phyllis Grant of Dash and Bella cooks beautiful iterations of what solo meals were always meant to be: exactly what you want, when and where you want them.

Today: A simple, comforting salad for those days when dinner feels out of reach. 

Husband: I'm going to the market. What do we need?

Me: I need a box of things for the thing.

Husband: Large garbage bags. Got it. And don't you think Dash needs a you know what. Like now. He's so stinky.

Me: Totally. Good luck with that. Not really on my list today. We can force him into the tub tomorrow.

Son: Noooooooooooooooo.

Husband: What are you cooking for dinner?

Me: I'm so fried. I can't cook dinner.

Husband: Should I get a rotisserie chicken and we'll have it with the salad thingy?

Son: I love the salad thingy!

Me: Yeeeessssss, pleeeeaaaaassssse. And some ooey gooey you know what.

Husband: Cheese. And something to drink?

Me: Yes. Red wine. Yes.

Husband: And some fresh --

Me: Bread? Yes. Come here.

Husband: Why?

Me: I need something else.

Romaine and Avocado Salad with Anchovy Garlic Vinaigrette

Serves 4

2 garlic cloves, peeled
2 oil-packed anchovy fillets
2 large shallots, finely chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
1/4 cup white wine vinegar (Champagne or red wine are good options as well)
1/4 cup sherry wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 cup extra-virgin olive oil (don't use one that's bitter or herbaceous)
20 to 25 romaine leaves (I prefer the crispy leaves from the heart)
2 avocados, halved, de-pitted, peeled, and sliced the long way
Coarse salt

See the full recipe (and save and print it) here.

Photos by Phyllis Grant