Browsed by
Category: Salads & Dressings

Pear, Stilton, and Bacon Salad with Honey-Glazed Pecans

Pear, Stilton, and Bacon Salad with Honey-Glazed Pecans

14_04_groceries_salad1/2 cup broken pecans

1 tablespoon honey

1/2 teaspoon coarse salt

Freshly ground black pepper

 

3 tablespoons honey

3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1/2 teaspoon coarse salt

 

1 large or 2 small ripe Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc pears, quartered, cored, and sliced 1/4 inch thick

4 cups torn mixed salad greens

2 slices bacon, crisp cooked and crumbled

4 ounces (about 1 cup) Stilton, cut into small cubes or crumbled

 

To make the honey-glazed pecans, tear off a 10-inch sheet of aluminum foil. Place the nuts in a small skillet and heat over medium heat, stirring, until hot. Decrease the heat to low and drizzle with the honey. Cook, stirring and adjusting the heat as needed to boil the honey. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the honey has coated the nuts and they begin to caramelize. Spread the nuts on the foil. Sprinkle with the salt and a grinding of black pepper. Set aside to cool. To make the dressing, whisk the honey, vinegar, and salt in a large bowl until well blended. Place the sliced pears in a separate bowl and add 2 tablespoons of the dressing. Reserve the remaining dressing for the greens.

Kiddie Cobb Salad

Kiddie Cobb Salad

14_08_nutrition_variety2 cups chopped butter, red leaf, or romaine lettuce

1/2 cup chopped tomato or 10 cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 large ripe avocado, cubed

2 or 3 slices smoked turkey, coarsely chopped

2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped

2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese (optional)

 

1 teaspoon soy sauce

2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil

 

Divide the lettuce between two large containers. In each container, arrange half the tomato, avocado, turkey, eggs, and blue cheese (if using) in rows on top of the lettuce. To make the dressing, divide the soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil between two small containers. Put on the lids and shake well. MAKE-AHEAD NOTES: the salad and dressing can be made the night before and stored in the refrigerator, but wait until morning to cut and add the avocado. Be sure to give your child instructions for drizzling the dressing over the salad at lunchtime.

Heirloom Tomato and Plum Salad

Heirloom Tomato and Plum Salad

¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (2 lemons)
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced into wedges
2 plums, sliced into wedges
4 oz arugula

Place the lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper in a mason jar and shake vigorously till emulsified. Combine tomatoes, plums and arugula in your serving bowl. Just before serving, top with vinaigrette to taste.

Avocado, Orange, & Spinach Salad

Avocado, Orange, & Spinach Salad

1 lb. Spinach

1/2 lb. Mushrooms, sliced

1/2 medium Red Onion, thinly sliced

1 avocado, peeled, pit removed, and sliced, to serve

1 can (11 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained, to serve

1/4 C. Olive oil

2 T. Cider vinegar

1 T. Sugar

1 T. Lemon & Pepper Seasoning

 

Remove tough stems from spinach and wash thoroughly to remove sand. Dry with paper towels or in salad spinner. Tear spinach into pieces and place in large salad bowl with mushrooms and onion. Place dressing ingredients in 1-C. glass measure and beat with fork until well combined. When ready to serve, pour dressing over spinach mixture and toss to coat. Garnish with avocado slices and mandarin oranges.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

 

Strawberry, Melon & Avocado Salad

Strawberry, Melon & Avocado Salad

18eda511ae6c41aa827041c49db0d70dc/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons sherry vinegar, or red-wine vinegar
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Pinch of salt
4 cups baby spinach
1 small avocado, (4-5 ounces), peeled, pitted and cut into 16 slices
16 thin slices cantaloupe, (about 1/2 small cantaloupe), rind removed
1 1/2 cups hulled strawberries, sliced
2 teaspoons sesame seeds, toasted

Whisk honey, vinegar, mint, pepper and salt in a small bowl. Divide spinach among 4 salad plates. Arrange alternating slices of avocado and cantaloupe in a fan on top of the spinach. Top each salad with strawberries, drizzle with dressing and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Avocado, Hearts of Palm and Red Onion Salad

Avocado, Hearts of Palm and Red Onion Salad

AvocadoHeartsPalmSalad1 small garlic clove

1/4 cup fresh Cilantro

3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup olive oil

 

14-ounce can hearts of palm, drained, chopped in ¾” pieces

12 oz. jar marinated Artichoke Hearts, drained, chopped in ¾” pieces

4 California firm-ripe avocados, chopped in 3/4” pieces

1 small red onion, sliced thin

4 slices Prosciutto, cut into 1” pieces

8 Black Olives, chopped

Boston lettuce leaves (from about 2 heads)

In bowl, combine palm, artichokes, avocado, red onion, prosciutto and olives. In a blender, purée garlic and coriander with lemon juice, sugar, and salt. With motor running add oil in a stream, blending until dressing is emulsified.   Pour dressing over salad and toss gently with a rubber spatula until combined well. Line salad plates with lettuce leaves and mound salad mixture on top.

Arugula Skirt Steak Salad with Caramelized Pears, Pecans, and Gorgonzola

Arugula Skirt Steak Salad with Caramelized Pears, Pecans, and Gorgonzola

0cb80e56690be71c6f6ba5f200ea532c1 lb. skirt steak, excess fat trimmed
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, for seasoning (about 1 teaspoon per side of steak)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup light brown sugar
2 large pears, cored and cut into medium-sized chunks
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
3/4 cup chopped pecans
4 ounces crumbled gorgonzola cheese
4 cups baby arugula, washed and patted dry

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/3 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Heat a large skillet over a medium-high flame; add olive oil to skillet. When oil begins to simmer (you can test this by carefully placing a drop of water in the pan; if it sizzles ferociously, it’s ready), place steak in skillet and let it cook for 5 minutes. Turn it and cook for another 4 minutes (5-6 if you want more medium than medium-rare). Transfer meat to a large cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Prepare the rest of your ingredients while it’s resting. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium flame. Once melted add brown sugar and stir until sugar is dissolved. Add pear chunks, stir, and then cook – stirring occasionally – for about 5 minutes, or just until the pears have released their juices and really softened up. With a slotted spoon (leaving behind as much sauce as possible) transfer pears to a clean plate. Add pecans to the same skillet the pears were cooked in (keeping the pear juices and caramel in the pan!), and toss them in the caramel, cooking over medium heat for just 1-2 minutes. Remove pan from heat and working quickly transfer pecans to a plate covered in wax or parchment paper. Once steak has rested for 10 minutes, slice meat against the grain into 1” strips. Scatter arugula onto a large serving dish or platter. Arrange steak strips across the top, then add pears, pecans, and gorgonzola evenly around the platter. Lightly dress with vinaigrette, and serve at once.

For the Mustard Vinaigrette: Whisk all of the ingredients together. Season well with salt and pepper and adjust ingredients to taste.

Chickpea Salad

Chickpea Salad

IMG_1695

1 15oz can Chickpeas

1 cup halved Cherry Tomatoes

1/2 large Cucumber, diced

1/2 Poblano Pepper, diced

8 black olives, finely diced

1 Scallion, chopped

2 T. Olive Oil

2 T. Lemon Juice

1 tsp. Lemon Zest

1 tsp. Marjoram, minced

1 tsp. Pepper

I don’t know why the picture is sideways, sorry!  I used marjoram because that is what I had growing on my porch; could be any herb you like, really.  Simply toss all ingredients together.  Tastes better after sitting and mingling a while.

 

Black Bean Quinoa Salad with Cherry Tomatoes

Black Bean Quinoa Salad with Cherry Tomatoes

bbsalad1 C. quinoa, rinsed

1 tsp. whole cumin

1 can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 1/2 to 2 C. cherry tomatoes, halved

2 shallots, thinly sliced

2 T. olive oil

1/4 tsp. ground cayenne pepper

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 tsp. salt plus more to taste

Cilantro, chopped (optional for mixing into salad)

Cilantro springs for garnish

 

Cook quinoa in a pot or rice cooker with enough water to cover by 1 centimeter.  In a dry pan, toast cumin seeds until fragrant, about 30 seconds. In a large bowl bowl, toss together cherry tomatoes, shallots (crumple them with your hands), olive oil, cayenne, black pepper, and toasted cumin, optional chopped cilantro, and 1 tsp. salt. When quinoa is done, allow it to cool slightly, then add to the bowl. Mix everything well, and add more salt if needed. Garnish with cilantro sprigs and serve.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

 

Watercress and Cranberry Salad with Roasted Onion Dressing

Watercress and Cranberry Salad with Roasted Onion Dressing

For the Roasted Onion Dressing:

1 medium red onion, peeled and cut into 8 wedges

1/4 C. plus 1 tsp. olive oil, divided

1/4 C. fresh lime juice

1 T. Dijon mustard

3 T. balsamic vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

 

For the salad:

1 red apple, cut in matchstick-size pieces

1 tsp. fresh lime juice

4 C. watercress, washed, trimmed and dried

1 1/2 C. dried cranberries or blueberries

1/3 C. chopped toasted walnuts

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place onion, cut side down, on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tsp. olive oil. Bake for 15 minutes. Turn onion over and bake for another 15 minutes, or until brown and caramelized. Set aside to cool. In a food processor, combine onion, lime juice, mustard and vinegar. Process until smooth and thick (add 1 T. water if mixture is too thick to process). Add the remaining 1/4 C. olive oil in a thin stream. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside. In a large bowl, toss apple and lime juice. Add watercress, cranberries and nuts. Add just enough dressing to coat greens. Toss well to combine.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Yin and Yang Salad with Peanut-Sesame Dressing

Yin and Yang Salad with Peanut-Sesame Dressing

4 C. shredded napa cabbage

3 C. shredded red cabbage

2 carrots, peeled and julienned

1 (2 1/2-inch) piece daikon radish, peeled and julienned

10 green onions (white and green parts), julienned

1 C. Peanut-Sesame Dressing (recipe follows)

4 C. 1/2-inch cubes chilled ginger tofu (recipe follows)

2 T. toasted sesame seeds

 

Toss the cabbage, carrots, radish, and green onions in a large bowl with enough dressing to coat. Mound the salad into 4 wide, shallow bowls or onto plates. Arrange the tofu around the salad. Sprinkle with the sesame seeds and serve.

 

Peanut-Sesame Dressing

 

2/3 C. creamy peanut butter

1/3 C. brown rice vinegar

1/4 C. maple syrup

3 T. water

2 T. tamari

1 T. minced peeled fresh ginger

2 cloves garlic

1 1/2 tsp. toasted sesame oil

1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

1 C. lightly packed fresh cilantro leaves

 

Blend the peanut butter, vinegar, maple syrup, water, tamari, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper in a food processor until smooth and creamy. Add the cilantro and blend just until it’s finely chopped. The dressing will keep for 2 days, covered and refrigerated.

 

Gingered Tofu

 

2 (12-oz.) containers water-packed extra-flrm tofu

2/3 C. tamari

1/4 C. brown rice vinegar

1/4 C. toasted sesame oil

1 T. minced garlic

I T. minced peeled fresh ginger

I T. canola oil

 

Drain the tofu and save the containers. Cut into 1-inch wide strips, and pat dry with paper towels. Cover a large baking sheet with more dry paper towels. Place Ihe tofu in a single layer over the towels on the baking sheet and let drain for 2 hours, changing the paper towels after 1 hour. Whisk the tamari, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a bowl to blend. Pour half of the marinade into the reserved tofu containers. Return the tofu slices to the containers, and pour the remaining marinade over. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours and up to 1 day. Preheat the oven to 400’F. Oil a heavy, rimmed baking sheet with the canola oil. Drain the tofu and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes on each side until golden brown and heated through. Serve warm or cold, or at room temperature. The tofu will keep for 1 day, covered and refrigerated.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

 

 

Mediterranean Beef Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Mediterranean Beef Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

salad1 pound beef sirloin Steak cut 1 inch thick

Salt and pepper

4 C. romaine, torn

1 small cucumber, sliced

1/2 of a small red onion, thinly sliced and separated into rings

1 C. halved cherry or grape tomatoes

1 C. cannellini beans (white kidney beans), rinsed and drained

1/2 C. crumbled feta cheese (2 oz.)

1 recipe lemon vinaigrette

 

Cook beef sirloin however you prefer. Thinly slice meat. Divide torn romaine among four dinner plates. Top with sliced meat, cucumber slices, red onion, tomatoes, cannellini beans, and feta cheese. Drizzle with Lemon Vinaigrette. If desired, garnish with parsley.

 

Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing: (makes about 1/2 C.)

 

1/4 C. EVOO

1/2 tsp. shredded lemon peel

3 Tbsp lemon juice

1 Tbsp chopped fresh oregano

2 cloves garlic, minced (1 tsp minced garlic)

 

Combine all ingredients in a screw top jar & shake. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

 

 

 

Red Onion, Parsley and Preserved Lemon Salad

Red Onion, Parsley and Preserved Lemon Salad

3 C. thinly sliced red onions

½ C. roughly chopped Italian parsley

2 T. olive oil

Peel of 1/8 preserved lemon, julienned

½ C. reserved lemon juice

1 large garlic clove, minced

¼ tsp. ground coriander

Ground red pepper

 

In a bowl, cover onions with cold water. Set aside to soak 30 minutes. Drain onions well and pat dry between layers of paper towels. In a bowl, stir together onions and remaining ingredients. Let stand, stirring occasionally, 15 minutes.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Mango, Avocado, and Arugula Salad

Mango, Avocado, and Arugula Salad

mango1 medium mango, peeled and sliced

1 medium avocado, peeled and sliced

1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice

1/4 to 1/2 cup pecan halves, as desired

A big handful or two of baby arugula leaves, as desired

2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut flakes, optional

Your favorite dressing to pass around (see suggestions following recipe)

 

Combine the mango with the avocado (toss the avocado gently with the lemon or lime juice first) on a serving platter or shallow bowl. Add the pecans and arugula, and toss gently. Sprinkle with the coconut flakes and serve at once. Pass around the dressing of your choice. Dressing suggestions: Quite honestly, this is good with no dressing at all, but if you’d like, you can pass around homemade or store bought balsamic vinaigrette or raspberry vinaigrette. Or, just step up the lemon and lime juice and add a splash of olive oil.

Cheesy Spinach Salad with Citrus Honey Dressing

Cheesy Spinach Salad with Citrus Honey Dressing

1 C. orange segments

1/2 C. thin cucumber slices

5 C. torn fresh spinach

1 T. chopped fresh mint

1 C. (4 oz.) Healthy Choice Fat Free Mozzarella Shreds

Citrus Honey Dressing

2 T. orange juice

1 T. water

2 tsp. cider vinegar

2 tsp. honey

1 T. vegetable oil

dash pepper

 

Combine dressing ingredients; mix well.  Marinate oranges and cucumbers in dressing at least 30 minutes.  Mix spinach, mint and cheese in a separate container; chill.  Toss marinated oranges and cucumbers with spinach-cheese mixture just before serving.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

 

Garlic and Herb Cheese-Glazed Sirloin and Orzo Salad with Fennel, Tomatoes and Oregano

Garlic and Herb Cheese-Glazed Sirloin and Orzo Salad with Fennel, Tomatoes and Oregano

2 T. olive oil, divided

4 boneless sirloin steaks

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

4 oz. garlic and herb soft cheese (recommended: Boursin)

1/4 C. vermouth

1 lb. cooked orzo

1 fennel bulb, diced

1 C. diced fresh tomatoes

1/4 C. fresh chopped oregano leaves

1/4 C. sherry vinegar

 

Heat 1 T. of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season steaks with salt and pepper and add to hot pan. Cook 3 to 5 minutes per side for medium. Remove steaks from pan and set aside. To the same pan, add cheese and vermouth. Simmer 2 minutes, until cheese melts and creates a sauce, scraping up any brown bits from the pan and incorporating them into the sauce. Spoon sauce over steaks just before serving. To make the salad, in a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, fennel, tomatoes, oregano, vinegar, and remaining olive oil. Toss to combine and season, to taste, with salt and black pepper.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

 

 

Spinach and Carrot Salad with Ginger Miso Vinaigrette

Spinach and Carrot Salad with Ginger Miso Vinaigrette

1 tablespoon minced ginger
8339_2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon miso paste
3 tablespoons canola oil
4 medium carrots, thinly sliced
4 cups packed spinach, tough stems removed

In a small bowl, combine the ginger, rice wine vinegar, lemon juice, miso paste and a sprinkling of freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle in the oil in a thin stream, whisking constantly until the dressing is emulsified. Add more pepper or miso to taste. Thinly slice the carrots on the bias. In a large bowl, toss them with the spinach and a little vinaigrette at a time until the spinach and carrots are lightly coated but not drenched in dressing. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Kale Salad with Cherries and Pecans

Kale Salad with Cherries and Pecans

kale-salad-with-cherries-and-pecans-lg-99991/2 cup pecans
8 ounces Black Kale, also known as Cavolo Nero, or Lacinato, Dinosaur, or Tuscan Kale
4 ounces radishes, sliced into paper-thin rounds
1/2 cup dried cherries
2 ounces soft goat cheese, chilled

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon smooth Dijon mustard
1 1/2 teaspoons honey
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional step: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and spread the pecans on a tray. Toast them for 5 to 10 minutes, tossing them once or twice to make sure they toast evenly. Remove them from the oven and set them aside to cool. Wash your kale and let it dry on spread-out kitchen or paper towels. Then, with a knife, remove the rib from each stalk, leaving long strips of kale leaves. Stack the leaves in small batches, roll them tightly the long way, and cut the roll crosswise into thin ribbons. Add the kale ribbons to a large salad bowl. Add the radishes, pecans and cherries. Crumble the goat cheese over top. Whisk dressing ingredients together in a small dish, and pour the dressing over the salad. NOTE: This salad is great to eat right away, but even better after 20 minutes of tenderizing in the dressing.

Watercress and Broccoli Salad with Dried Cranberries

Watercress and Broccoli Salad with Dried Cranberries

salad4 C. broccoli florets (from about 1 1/2 lb. broccoli)

1/4 C. red wine vinegar

1/4 C. honey

1 garlic clove, minced

3/4 C. thinly sliced red onion

6 T. dried sweetened cranberries

2 bunches watercress, thick stems trimmed (about 5 C. s)

 

Steam broccoli until crisp-tender, about 4 minutes. Rinse under cold water; drain. Whisk vinegar, honey, and garlic in large bowl to blend. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add red onion and cranberries to dressing. Let stand until onion softens slightly, about 30 minutes. Add broccoli and watercress to onion mixture and toss to coat. Sprinkle with pepper.  Divide salad among plates.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

 

Oil-Free Citrus Salad Dressing

Oil-Free Citrus Salad Dressing

½ cup sundried tomatoes, packed
½ cup fresh basil leaves
2 fresh tomatoes
Juice of 1 orange
1 clove of garlic, minced
2 Neglet Noor dates or 1 Medjool date (optional)
Pinch of salt (optional)
Ground pepper, to taste

Soak sundried tomatoes in freshly squeezed orange juice for at least one hour or overnight in a fridge. Make sure to use sundried tomatoes that are not soaked in oil (otherwise it won’t be low fat). Throw all the ingredients, including the orange juice, in a blender and blend until smooth. If your oranges are sweet enough, you might not need to use any dates. Also, I didn’t use any salt but you might want to use it depending on your taste preferences. Pour over salad and enjoy!

Broccoli Salad with Red Onions, Raisins & Pine Nuts

Broccoli Salad with Red Onions, Raisins & Pine Nuts

1 lb. Broccoli, trimmed and cut into florets

2 tsp. Salt

1 C. medium dice Red Onion

1/2 C. finely diced Fennel

1 C. Golden Raisins

1/3 C. toasted Pine Nuts

Zest of 1 Orange, minced

3 T. balsamic Vinegar

2 T. fresh Orange Juice

3 T. EVOO

Pepper

1 T. minced Tarragon Leaves

1 tsp. minced fresh Mint Leaves

 

Place broccoli in boiling water to cover and add salt; cook for one minute.  Drain and refresh in ice water until cold; drain again.  In large bowl combine broccoli, onions, fennel, raisins, pine nuts and orange zest.  In small bowl combine vinegar and orange juice.  Slowly whisk in oil, beating until a thick emulsion forms.  Season with salt and pepper to taste stir in herbs.  Pour over broccoli mixture and toss well.  Let stand an hour before serving.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

 

Baby Greens with Pomegranate Vinaigrette and Caramelized Onions

Baby Greens with Pomegranate Vinaigrette and Caramelized Onions

3 pomegranates

1 C. chicken stock

1/3 C. balsamic vinegar

1 T. dijon mustard

1 T. shallots

1/2 C. olive oil

1/2 C. salad oil

2 T. fresh basil and chervil, chopped

1 large onion, julienned, caramelized

8 ounces baby greens

8 ounces goat cheese

16 cherry tomatoes, cut in half

Edible flowers for garnish

Salt and pepper to taste

 

The day before serving, remove seeds from pomegranate and reserve 1/3 C. To make coulis, place seeds in blender or food processor with chicken stock; pulse to break up seeds. Put mixture into saucepan and reduce by half. Pass through a fine strainer and cool. Place coulis in blender or food processor. Add vinegar, mustard, shallots, and salt and pepper. Slowly add in oils; you may need to thin with chicken stock or water. Add basil and chervil. Taste the next day and adjust for consistency. Sauté onion slowly until brown and sugar has developed. This can also be done the day before. Place washed greens in bowl and add dressing to coat. Divide greens onto 4 plates. Top with onions, goat cheese, tomatoes, reserved seeds, and edible flowers.

 

Avocado Garden Salad

Avocado Garden Salad

salad6 cups torn or cut mixed salad greens
3 medium tomatoes, chopped
5 green onions, chopped
1 small cucumber, peeled and chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1⁄3 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
1 large avocado, peeled

Mix salad greens, tomatoes, onions, and cucumber in a large serving bowl. In a small bowl, mix lemon juice, garlic powder, ground black pepper, and salt. Pour over salad mixture and toss together. Cut avocado in half lengthwise. Remove pit and peel avocado halves. Slice into thin wedges, about 1/8-inch thick. Arrange avocado slices on top of salad and serve immediately
Yield: 6 servings.
Serving Size: 1½ cups per serving
Calories: 78
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 4g

Tomato Spinach Salad

Tomato Spinach Salad

tomato-spinach-salad2 cups fresh spinach
2 tomatoes, cut into chunks or wedges
6 small mozzarella balls, cut in half
1/2 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

In a salad bowl, combine spinach, tomatoes, and mozzarella balls. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Drizzle dressing over salad and serve.

Tortellini Salad

Tortellini Salad

tortellinsalad1 (20-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini

1 cup fresh mozzarella, cubed

1 cup pepperoni, chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes cut in half

1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped

2/3 cup Caesar salad dressing

Salt and pepper to taste

 

Cook tortellini according to package directions; drain and rinse with cold water and drain again. Transfer cooked tortellini to a large bowl and add remaining ingredients. Toss well. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving.

Edamame Salad

Edamame Salad

1 bag (16 ounces) frozen shelled edamame (green soybeans)
1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 bunch radishes (8 ounces), cut in half and thinly sliced
1 cup loosely packed chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Toss the edamame, vinegar, oil, salt, pepper, radishes, and cilantro together in a large bowl.  Serve chilled or at room temperature.

 

Avocado Salad Dressing

Avocado Salad Dressing

avocadodressing1/2 Cup Avocado
1/4 Cup Fresh Cilantro
Juice of 1 Lime
1/2 Cup Water
2 T. Olive oil
1 tsp. Garlic Salt

Put all ingredients in blender, or food processor and blend until very smooth.

Warm Bean Salad with Fresh Herbs and Olives

Warm Bean Salad with Fresh Herbs and Olives

3 C. drained cooked white beans, such as cannelloni, navy, baby white limas, or flageolets; (reserve about 1/3 C. of the cooking liquid) or canned beans, drained and rinsed well

1 tsp. plus 1 tsp. fruity extra-virgin olive oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 tsp. finely chopped fresh rosemary

1/2 tsp. finely chopped fresh thyme

Scant 1/3 C. bean cooking liquid, unsalted homemade or canned low-sodium chicken broth, or water

1/2 C. black olives, such as Kalamata or Gaeta, pitted and chopped

3 tsp. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

4 large fresh basil leaves, torn into 1/2- to 1/4-inch pieces

2 to 3 tsp. fresh lemon juice

1/2 tsp. kosher salt, or to taste

Freshly ground black pepper

 warmbean

Place the beans in a medium nonstick skillet and set aside. To make the dressing, in a small skillet, combine the olive oil and garlic over low heat, cover and cook until the garlic is soft, about 3 minutes. Uncover, increase the heat to moderate, and add the rosemary and thyme. Cook until the herbs begin to sizzle and little bubbles dance around them; do not let the garlic brown. Add the bean cooking liquid and olives, increase the heat to high, and boil for 30 seconds. Scatter the parsley and basil over the beans and pour over the dressing, tossing to coat. Place the beans over high heat and toss frequently until they are hot and have absorbed most of the dressing. Remove from the heat and add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

 

 

Marinated Mushroom Salad

Marinated Mushroom Salad

mushrooms1 cup vegetable oil

2 tsp. salt

2 1/2 tsp. dry basil

2 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp. pepper

1/2 tsp. paprika

5 T. white wine vinegar

4 tsp. lemon juice

2 pounds fresh mushrooms, sliced

1 1/2 cups thinly sliced green onions (green tops included)

1 C. Black Olives, sliced

1 quart cherry tomatoes, washed and stems removed

 

In a large bowl suitable for marinating, (glass, stainless steel or ceramic) whisk the oil, salt, basil, mustard, pepper, paprika, white wine vinegar and lemon juice. Mix in mushrooms, olives and green onions. Cover, marinate for one hour at room temperature, stirring occasionally. Just before serving, fold in tomatoes, and place on bed of lettuce. Serves 8 – 12. This is a wonderful buffet dish or a take along to a potluck dinner.

 

Mango Salad with Lobster and Lime Vinaigrette

Mango Salad with Lobster and Lime Vinaigrette

For the lime vinaigrette:

1/4 C. chopped cilantro

2 scallions, minced

Juice and zest of 1 lime

1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard

1/8 tsp. sugar

1/8 tsp. salt

Freshly ground pepper to taste

About 1/3 C. canola oil

 

For the salad:

1 (12-oz.) frozen lobster tail or 12 oz. cooked shrimp (see note)

1 ripe mango

8 oz. mixed baby greens

1/2 yellow or red bell pepper, cored, seeded and diced

 

Combine cilantro, onions, lime juice and zest, mustard, sugar, salt and pepper to taste in small bowl; whisk until smooth. Whisk in oil until smooth. Taste for seasoning; whisk in more oil, if too tart. Prepare lobster or shrimp according to package directions; cool. Remove from shells; cut into pieces. Holding the mango upright, carefully cut the two rounded sides away from the large seed. Score the fruit into cubes without cutting through the peel; push the peel side to turn the cubes inside out. Cut the mango cubes away from the peel. Divide greens among 4 dinner plates; top each with mango cubes, yellow pepper and lobster pieces. Drizzle each with lime vinaigrette.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

 

Provençal Calamari Salad with Tarragon and Mint

Provençal Calamari Salad with Tarragon and Mint

PROVEN~11/4 cup olive oil, plus 2 tablespoons

4 cloves garlic, sliced

1/4 teaspoon chili flakes

1 cup grape tomatoes

1 pound calamari, cut into 1/2”-rings

zest and juice of 1/2 lemon

1 stem tarragon, leaves roughly chopped

2 stems mint, leaves roughly chopped

chopped toasted almonds (optional)

 

In a sauté pan, heat 1/4 cup olive oil over medium heat.  Add the garlic and sauté gently—you don’t want to add color, until it just turns fragrant.  Add the tomatoes and chili flakes, and some salt and pepper, and sauté for about 3 minutes. Raise the heat to high, add the calamari, and season again.  Allow to cook until just firm and opaque—under five minutes. Meanwhile, make the dressing by whisking together the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, the lemon zest and lemon juice, with some salt and pepper. When the calamari have gone from translucent shell pink to opaque white, and not a moment later, drain off most of the liquid in the pan.  Then add the lemon dressing and the tarragon and mint.  If you like, just a few roughly chopped toasted almonds over the top.  Serve hot, or at room temperature.

 

 

 

 

Blueberry, Mango, and Jicama Salsa

Blueberry, Mango, and Jicama Salsa

salsa1 pint blueberries, cleaned

1 mango, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch pieces

1 jicama (8 ounces), peeled and diced into 1/2-inch pieces

2 T. sugar

1 jalapeño chili (red or green), seeded and minced

2 T. fresh mint, finely chopped

1 T. balsamic vinegar

 

Combine all ingredients in a stainless steel or glass bowl. Let stand for 30 minutes. Serve over grilled or poached chicken or fish.

 

Asian Shrimp Salad

Asian Shrimp Salad

1 lb. cooked, peeled, deveined shrimp, tails left on

1/4 C. lemon juice

1 small package Asian Bean Thread Noodles

1 or 2 C. thinly sliced Napa Cabbage

1 or 2 C. thinly sliced bok choy

2 C. thinly sliced Romaine or iceberg lettuce

1/2 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips

1/2 yellow bell pepper, cut into thin strips

4 to 6 green onions, thinly sliced

1/3 C.  chopped cilantro or parsley

Salt and pepper

 

Soak noodles in a bowl of hot water for 20 minutes. Drain well and pat dry. Toss the noodles with just enough dressing to coat and let stand for 10 minutes. Combine bok choy, napa cabbage, lettuce, peppers, green onions, and cilantro in a bowl and add enough dressing to coat; toss well. Season with salt and pepper. Place noodles in bowl, on plate or on serving platter, top with vegetables and serve with shrimp, tossed with dressing.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Red and Black Lentil Salad with Capers

Red and Black Lentil Salad with Capers

1 C. red lentils

1 C. black lentils

2 carrots peeled and finely grated

1/2 C. chopped fresh parsley

1/4 C. capers drained rinsed and coarsely chopped

 

Vinaigrette:

3 T. red wine vinegar

1 T. Dijon mustard

1 clove garlic minced

1/2 C. olive oil

2 T. snipped fresh chives

1 1/2 tsp. minced fresh tarragon or 1/2 tsp. dried tarragon

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

 

Pick over and rinse lentils. Cook red lentils covered in 3 C. salted simmering water for about 13 minutes or until just tender. Drain and let cool. Cook black lentils covered in 3 C. salted simmering water for about 25 minutes or until just tender. Drain and let cool. In a large bowl combine lentils carrots parsley and capers. To make vinaigrette: In a medium bowl whisk vinegar mustard garlic and oil together. Stir in chives tarragon salt and pepper. Add to lentils and toss well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

 

 

Curried Chicken-Oregon Hazelnut Salad in Melon Shell

Curried Chicken-Oregon Hazelnut Salad in Melon Shell

3 small melons, cut in half and seeded (drain upside down on towel)

 

Chicken Filling

2 C. cubed cooked chicken

1/2 C. diced celery

1 tart apple, cored, chopped, dipped in lemon juice and water

1 T. green onions, finely chopped

1 T. capers, drained

2/3 C. roasted and coarsely chopped Oregon hazelnuts

1/2 C. mayonnaise

2 T. sour cream

2 tsp. curry powder

Currants, for garnish

 

Combine first six ingredients, except apples.  Mix mayonnaise, sour cream and curry together and stir into chicken mixture.  Cover and refrigerate 4 hours or overnight.  Add chopped apples that have been dipped in lemon juice and water.  Fill cavity of melons.  Garnish with sprinkle of currants over top.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

 

SBD Greek Salad

SBD Greek Salad

8 leaves romaine lettuce, torn into bite sized pieces

1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and sliced

1 tomato, chopped

1/2 C. sliced red onion

1/2 C. crumbled reduced fat feta cheese

2 T extra virgin olive oil

2 T fresh lemon juice

1 tsp. dried oregano leaves

1/2 tsp. salt

 

Combine the lettuce, cucumber, tomato, onion, and cheese in a large bowl. Whisk together the oil, lemon juice, oregano, and salt in a small bowl. Pour over the lettuce mixture and toss until coated.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Salad in a Bread Boat

Salad in a Bread Boat

2 lemons

2/3 C. olive oil

3 or 4 dashes lemon pepper

2 or 3 dashes garlic salt

2 to 3 dashes seasoned pepper blend

1/4 bunch mint, chopped and 1/4 bunch basil, chopped

1 T. Dijon mustard

1/2 T. sugar

1 bag Greener Selection salad mix, washed and dried

1 small can sliced black olives

1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

4 pickled okra pods, sliced

4 to 6 oz. Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled

1 loaf Russian Rye

 

Squeeze lemons into a large bowl, add oil, pepper, salt chopped mint and basil, Dijon, and sugar. Whisk until blended. Add lettuce, tomatoes, okra, and olives, and toss to coat and mix. Cut a 1-inch thick slice from top of bread, and set top aside. Hollow out bread, leaving a 1-inch shell, reserve soft bread for another use.  Fill bread shell with salad, replace top. Slice and serve.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

SBD Shrimp and Celery Salad

SBD Shrimp and Celery Salad

1/2 C. reduced-fat sour cream

1/4 C. mayonnaise

2 tsp. fresh lime juice

1 tsp. grated lime zest

1 1/2 tsp. curry powder

1/4 tsp. salt

11/2 lb. peeled, deveined, and cooked medium fresh or frozen shrimp (thaw if frozen)

4 large celery stalks, thinly sliced

1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced

 

Whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, curry powder, and salt in a large bowl. Add shrimp, celery, and cucumber; toss gently to coat. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Avocado-Tahini Dressing

Avocado-Tahini Dressing

1 medium ripe Avocado, peeled and diced

1/3 C. Tahini

Juice of 1 Lemon

½ tsp. Cumin

2-4 T. fresh chopped Parsley or Cilantro

Combine all ingredients in a food processor and puree until smooth. Add ¼ – ½ C. water, as needed, to achieve desired consistency. Stir ½-1 C. into cooked greens; store remainder in covered container in refrigerator for up to 3 days.

 dressing

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber: