Spinach Salad with Crisped Tempeh

Vegetarian Times Issue: April 1, 2000   p.46

Directions

1. In small saucepan, combine vegetable oil and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat (oil should bubble gently) and cook until garlic is tender but not browned, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in oregano and let stand 30 minutes to blend flavors.
2. Meanwhile, in large salad bowl, combine spinach, onion rings, mushrooms and scallion. Set aside.
3. In medium skillet, heat peanut oil over medium-high heat. Add tempeh and cook, stirring often and shaking pan, until lightly browned and crisp, 7 to 10 minutes.
4. While tempeh is cooking, strain flavored oil through fine sieve; set aside. Transfer cooked garlic to cutting board. Holding blade of large, heavy knife parallel to board, smear garlic over board, then chop to a paste.
5. Transfer cooked tempeh to bowl. In same warm skillet, combine 2 tablespoons reserved flavored oil, garlic paste, vinegar, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then pour over salad. Add crisped tempeh, toss well and serve.