- 1 (1/2-inch-thick) slice peeled fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup Asian sesame paste or smooth peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons Asian sesame oil
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar (not seasoned)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon Asian chile paste with garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 lb Asian pear (1 large or 2 medium)
- 4 cups trimmed watercress sprigs (from 2 bunches; 10 oz)
- 1 carrot, finely shredded
- Available at some Asian markets and by mail order from Ethnic Grocer (800-523-1961).
- Blend all dressing ingredients in a blender until smooth.
- Peel pear and cut into 1/8- to 1/4-inch-thick julienne, then transfer to a bowl.
- Combine watercress and pear in a bowl, then season with salt and pepper and toss gently. Divide among plates, then drizzle with some dressing and sprinkle with carrot.