Ingredients

• 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
• 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).

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Instructions

1. Blend all dressing ingredients in a blender until smooth.
2. Prepare salad: Peel pear and cut into 1/8- to 1/4-inch-thick julienne, then transfer to a bowl. 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.
3. Peel pear and cut into 1/8- to 1/4-inch-thick julienne, then transfer to a bowl.
4. 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.