Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 20 min

　　

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

　　

For dressing

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

　　

For salad

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).

　　

Make dressing:

Step 1

Blend all dressing ingredients in a blender until smooth.

　　

Prepare salad:

Step 2

Peel pear and cut into 1/8- to 1/4-inch-thick julienne, then transfer to a bowl.

　　

Step 3

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.

　　Cooks' note:

　　• Dressing keeps, covered tightly and chilled, 1 week.