Strawberry Champagne Salad

      Another recipe for Valentines. And another recipe borrowed from   my honey.  Traditional foods for the 14th always seem to be strawberries and champagne.  This recipe is fun because he uses actual champagne and not just champagne vinegar.  The Champagne adds just a little bit of effervescence to the dressing. Simple, light and refreshing, it's sure to please!
      Start by getting your ingredients together in a bowl to toss.
Arugula - a couple of handfuls (remember it's just for two) the arugula is spicy and isn't overly crunchy-  Because what we really want to hear at the dinner table for a romantic meal is the crunching of lettuce.  right?
Strawberries- I like a lot, about 1 cup of sliced strawberries.  Keep a few out on the side to top the salad with
Crumbled Gorgonzola - the distinct flavors in the blue cheese pair well with the strawberries and champagne and contrasts nicely with the spicy arugula.
Finally make the dressing- you will want to do this at the last minute so that you don't loose the bubbles, plus you might as well just put the bottle on the table.  In a small bowl whisk together
1/4 cup champagne vinegar
2 TBS honey
1/4 tsp pink peppercorns, ground
pinch salt
then slowly whisk in
1/2 cup salad oil and finish with
a splash champagne
drizzle a small amount into the salad and toss until well coated, adding more if you need it.  Build your salads up on plates so that they are nice and tall then top with a few more pieces of strawberry.  A great way to start a special meal, or any meal for that matter!