Caramelized Apple and Arugula Salad

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

1 tablespoon butter

1 tablespoon pure maple syrup

1 large tart apple, peeled and sliced 1/4-inch thick 

1 (5-oz.) bag baby arugula

4 strips cooked, crisp bacon, broken into bite-size pieces

4 very thin red onion slices, quartered

Apple Vinaigrette (recipe follows)

Melt butter and syrup in a medium skillet. Cut apple slices in half and add to the skillet. Cook over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, stirring frequently; let cool to warm. In a medium bowl, toss arugula with apples, bacon, onions and vinaigrette. Makes 4 servings.

Apple Vinaigrette:

2 1/2 tablespoons apple juice concentrate

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 1/2 tablespoons wine vinegar

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. 

Whisk together all ingredients in a small bowl or place in a small jar with a tight fitting lid and shake to mix.