Mandarin Almond Salad

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 tablespoons sugar, divided
• ½ cup slivered almonds
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
• 1 bunch red leaf lettuce, torn
• 1 can (11 oz.) mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 small red onion, sliced

In a small skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of sugar over low heat. Add almonds and stir until coated. Cool; break into small pieces and set aside. In a jar with a tight fitting lid, combine the oil, vinegar, parsley, salt, pepper, hot pepper sauce and remaining sugar; shake well. Just before serving, combine the lettuce, oranges, onion and almonds in a large salad bowl. Shake dressing over salad and toss. Yield 4-6 servings.