Killed Lettuce with Toasted Sesame Seeds

Killed lettuce is an old Southern specialty. A Mississippi or Alabama cook, of course, would use the hot bacon dressing from yesterday’s green bean recipe. Substitute that anytime you want, but try this one first. The toasted sesame seeds add a nutty richness to the hot oil and vinegar—all in all, the perfect murder. SAM

2 heads Bibb lettuce, torn
1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
1/4 cup sesame seeds
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1/4 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground white pepper to taste

In a large salad bowl, combine the lettuce and tomatoes and set aside. In a small, dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds until golden, stirring constantly. Add the olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper and heat just to boiling. Pour over the salad and toss gently to mix. Serve at once.
Makes 4 servings.