Saturday, February 13, 2016

Greek Salad


3/4 lb tomatoes, seeded, diced (about 2 cups)
2 c diced seeded peeled cucumber (about 1 large)
1 c diced red bell pepper (about 1 large)
1/4 c pitted Kalamata olives or other brine-cured black olives, halved
1/4 c diced red onion
3 Tbsp chopped fresh Italian parsley
3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/4 c crumbled feta cheese (about 2 ounces)


Toss first 9 ingredients in medium bowl to blend.
Gently mix in cheese. Season with salt and pepper.

Can be made 2 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature.

Optional: Serve over a bed of Romaine lettuce.

Summertime or Anytime Fruit Salad

This yummy and refreshing salad goes well with a breakfast or brunch. It is also a big hit at pot lucks! Most of the preparation is done the day before serving.

PINEAPPLE CREAM CHEESE DRESSING
- 1/3 c sugar
- 4 tsp cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 c pineapple juice
- 1/4 c orange juice
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 pkg (3oz. each) cream cheese, softened
           
SALAD
- 2 c fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 c pineapple tidbits
- 1 1/2 c seedless green or red grapes, halved
- 1 1/2 c peaches or nectarines, diced
- 1 c fresh blueberries or raspberries
- 1/4 c sugar
- leaf lettuce, optional

1.   DAY BEFORE SERVING

2.   In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir in the juices until smooth.

3.   Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat.

4.   Stir a small amount into the eggs; return all to the pan, stirring constantly.

5.   Cook and stir until mixture reaches 160 degrees and is thickened. Remove from heat and cool slightly.

6.   In a small mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add juice mixture; mix well. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

7.   In a large bowl, combine the fruit. Sprinkle with sugar; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

8.   JUST BEFORE SERVING


9.   Before serving, combine dressing and fruit and toss lightly. Can garnish bowl by lining it with lettuce.