Capri Salad

 I'm sharing this one again because it's wonderful!

This recipe can be made very quickly, and is a very nice appetizer for an Italian meal.

I have sweet basil growing like crazy in my little garden (emphasis on LITTLE-- only THREE PLANTS!) but it excites me, because my gardens, even herb gardens, don't normally do well.

*I used about 5 Roma tomatoes, sliced (can also use beefsteak tomatoes)
* 4 1/2 oz. mozzerella cheese (sliced, fresh would be best, but I had shredded on hand, and it was fine)
*about 12 black olives, sliced (or however many you think you would like)
*8 basil leaves, torn, if large
1 T. balsamic vinegar
1T. olive oil
 salt and pepper to taste

Slice tomatoes.  Slice Mozarella and place over the tomatoes (or sprinkle on if shredded ). Save some for adding to the top.
Slice olives into rings and place on top of cheese.
Add some of the basil (same some for garnish)
Top with cheese.

Broil in a pre-heated oven for about 3-4 minutes (watch carefully so it doesn't burn)
When done, drizzle with balsamic vinegar and the oil that have been mixed together, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.


Enjoy!

ChristmasTaffy Apple Salad

This treat is great anytime of the year, but it is a nice lighter addition to your holiday dessert table which will balance nicely against all the heavy sweets. This is not necessarily a diet friendly recipe, but it is not so rich and heavy which has come as a welcome relief to our family as we have been bombarded with sweet things here lately!

*This needs to chill thoroughly for best flavor overnight in the fridge, however it is still good chilled for just a few hours if you're like me and can't wait!



YOU WILL NEED:

1/2 cup sugar
1 T. cornstarch
2 T. lemon juice
1 egg
1 cup pineapple chunks (drain- save juice)
1 (8 oz.) Cool Whip (you can use the lite version- both are good)
2 med. red apples
2 med. green apples
2 cup mini marshmallows
1 1/2 cup salted peanuts

In pan, heat sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, egg and juice from pineapple until thick after boiling (about 5 minutes).
Cool.
In Large bowl, combine all other ingredients. Toss lightly. Refrigerate overnight (or at least several hours).




Have a wonderful Christmas!

Layered Cauliflower Salad ( a repost)

A beautiful and delicious salad that never disappoints. Of course it can be served anytime, but if you need a salad to serve during the holidays, this one will have your guests raving! The dressing is creamy and sweet- and the crunchy vegetables make for a perfect recipe.This salad can be assembled ahead of time which saves time while other recipes are being prepared. Once you decide to mix it up, serve immediately.





YOU WILL NEED:

1 head lettuce, washed and crisped and torn into bite-sized pieces)
1 head cauliflower, washed and cut into small pieces
1 lb. bacon, fried and drained, then crumbled
Chopped or dried onions, to taste (optional)
2 cups mayonnaise
3/4 sugar
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese

In glass serving dish, layer:

lettuce
cauliflower
mayo
sugar
onion
bacon
Parmesan cheese

Cover with plastic wrap and chill in fridge till ready to serve.

ENJOY~Everything in Moderation

AWESOME Gourmet Tuna Salad!

I found this recipe at allrecipes.com and had to try it because of the fantastic reviews it received from so many of those who had tried it. It was a recipe from a caterer and it did not disappoint!

I have several ways I prepare mine, this one was very different, though. Secret ingredients are PARMESAN CHEESE and CURRY! Who knew these flavors would blend so nicely with tuna?!

Not a believer? Don't take my word for it- prepare it yourself and wow the crowd!



Yield 4 servings

Ingredients

* 1 (7 ounce) can white tuna, drained and flaked
* 6 tablespoons mayonnaise or salad dressing (this makes a very creamy salad- use less if you prefer a not-so creamy salad)
* 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese
* 3 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
* 1/8 teaspoon dried minced onion flakes
* 1/4 teaspoon curry powder
* 1 tablespoon dried parsley
* 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
* 1 pinch garlic powder

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, stir together the tuna, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and onion flakes. Season with curry powder, parsley, dill and garlic powder. Mix well and serve with crackers or on a sandwich.

*I ate my first sandwich, on 7 grain bread with lettuce added.
Sandwich #2 was made using flour tortillas and lettuce.
Then I ate some with crackers. IT IS ADDICTING and I'm not a tuna salad lover at all!
*In the photo, I had also added some green apple. It didn't need anything extra but I needed to use up the apples!