Grand America Salad

I had this salad at an event at the Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City, Utah.  I've had salads similar to this, but the roasted grapes and toasted nuts and coconut took it to an extra tasty level--do it if you have the time!

Image Credit Here

Salad Ingredients:

butter leaf lettuce
walnuts or pecans, toasted
shaved coconut, toasted
grapes, roasted (if desired)
radishes, sliced
gorgonzola cheese

Creamy Balsamic Dressing

-This dressing doesn't actually have mayonnaise, but when you blend it in a blender to emulsify the oil and vinegar it takes on a beautiful creamy look!

1/2 c. light olive oil

1/4 c. balsamic vinegar

1/4 c. honey

1 clove garlic

1 TBS dijon mustard

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp salt

-Blend all ingredients in a blender on high for 2 minutes until emulsified (keeps dressing from separating).  

Frozen Grapes

I can't remember who gave me the idea to freeze grapes, but in a conversation long ago, some friend mentioned how good they are. We've been freezing them ever since for a fun treat! Just throw some washed grapes into a ziploc bag and throw them in the freezer. You'll love the little cold sweet ice balls!

Rotisserie Chicken Pitas

This recipe is from my sister-in-law Michelle. It isn't loaded with much in the way of fruits and vegetables, but I thought I'd post the "reasonably healthy" recipe anyway. It is a fun lunch!

Filling:
2 cups rotisserie chicken, chopped
2 large green onions
1/4 cup pecans, chopped
1 c. sliced red grapes
1 TBS honey
1 tsp curry
1/4 c. mayonnaise
1/4 c. plain yogurt
-Mix all ingredients together well, fill whole grain pocket pitas and top with crumbled turkey bacon.

Fruit Cocktail

This was a common breakfast or dinner side dish in my home growing up. It is simple and works well all year round. Just use fruit in season (not canned!!!).

Winter Combo as pictured:

Serves 6

1 apple, diced

1 firm pear, diced

1 cup red grapes

1 banana, diced

2 oranges, peeled and sliced

Other optional add ins:

pineapple

strawberries (if available, these add a great color punch!)

pomegranate seeds

-Place all diced fruit in bowl and pour in a type of juice such as orange juice, peach juice, pineapple/mango combo, until fruit 2/3 submerged. Serve up :-)