Berry and Pretzel Salad

By: Jocelyn Denyer

1 c small salted bow-knot pretzels, coarsely crushed
1/4 c butter, melted
1 Tbsp sugar
3 oz package cream cheese, at room temp
2 oz Gorgonzola or other blue cheese, at room temp
12 very large strawberries with long stems attached, rinsed and drained
4 c torn mixed salad greens 1/2 c fresh raspberries, rinsed and drained
Salt and pepper to taste

Dressing:
3 Tbsp raspberry vinegar or raspberry thyme vinegar
1 shallot, minced (1 Tbsp)
1/3 c mild vegetable oil, such as canola

Preheat oven to 350. In a small bowl, combine pretzels, butter, and sugar. Spread mixture into a 9x13 and bake for 10 minutes, stirring once. remove and let cool.
In a small bowl, mix cream cheese and Gorgonzola until smooth and well blended. Cut 1 strawberry in half lengthwise, slightly off center. spread 2 tsp of cheese mixture on cut side of one half. cover with remaining half to reform berry shape. Place filled berries on a plate, cover, and chill for at least 1 hour.
In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, shallot and oil. Set aside.
To serve, divide greens among 4 individual serving plates. Arrange 3 filled berries over greens. Scatter raspberries around strawberries. wisk dressing and drizzle over salads. Sprinkle with baked pretzels. Serve with salt, if desired, and pepper.