Green Salad with Apple Dressing

A different take on green salad, with a Fall twist. Use a nice crisp apple with a bit of sweet and a bit of tang. Serve alongside a nice warm soup or a slow-braised beef roast. Wear a sweater. Rake some leaves, Imagine a bonfire... (I may be getting carried away...)

Viniagrette:
1/4 c apple cider vinegar
3 Tbsp minced shallots
2 tsp dijon mustard
2 tsp honey
1/2 c light olive oil

12 cups mixed greens
1 crisp red-skinned apple, thinly sliced or medium diced

Combine vinaigrette with whisk - salt and pepper to taste, drizzle over greens and apples and toss.

Sharon Maiolie’s Potato Salad

The first time I tasted this potato salad, I knew I was in love.  I didn't quite realize that it would become my go-to recipe for any time I made potato salad, which it has.  There are a thousand ways to make potato salad, and I like a great many of them, but the simplicity of this one has me hooked.  If you invite me to a picnic or backyard barbecue, this may be what I bring.  I prefer to make this at least a day ahead, and I like it really moist, so sometimes I stir up extra sauce if it doesn't look wet enough.  

Though I got this recipe from my friend Sharon, and she lays no claim to its creation, I still think of it as hers.  Maybe one reason I like to make it so often is the memories it brings to mind...

The “Mothership” Tomato Salad

I learned this from Jamie Oliver- one of my favorite chefs.  As with many of his dishes, this recipe is not precisely measured- go with the flow!

Salmon Caesar Salad

To be honest, I can't remember which magazine this came from.  I know we began making this while we lived in Florida, so it may have been Cooking Light, but we have given it a tweak or two over the years, so it''s all ours now.  This is perfect for a light summer supper or first-night of camping meal to cook over the campfire when you are anticipating a steadily degenerating diet going from burgers and finally to hot dogs in the coming days...  (the photo above was taken on a camping trip.)

Broiling salmon in your oven's broiler may be an option if you are grill-less and desperate, but I don't like the smell it leaves behind in the house, so I'm including the grill tips we have learned over the years.

Lisa's Bean Salad

Our small-group Bible study in Florida was a blessing to us in many ways, and our 4th of July potluck meal gatherings still bring back fond memories of fun, fellowship, and food.  The first time Lisa Savant made this salad I went back for seconds (and probably thirds).  The leftovers we took home were mine-all-mine and I was officially hooked on the sweet and sour flavors of this crispy, beautiful salad.  This bean salad is perfect for summertime picnics, potluck suppers, barbecues, or anytime you need something light, colorful, and easy to make.