Summer Salads

Ok, ok...so I know I have been pushing fall for weeks now, and it's officially here, but because there are a few hot ones still to come, I urge you to take advantage of what's left of all that yummy summer produce out there. Juicy watermelon, berries, sweet corn and buttery avocados, to name a few, are just at the end of their season so why not use 'em up and enjoy them one last time? A great way to do that in one fell swoop? In a big old salad! Lately, I've been working on getting my kids (and hubby, let's be honest) to eat a larger variety of fruits and veggies and this is a great way to load their plates of with an assortment of healthy and delicious foods. It's easier to get kids to try things if you don't make a big deal out of it and just simply add it to their plate with foods they already like. You don't only have to use lettuce for a base; you can use rice, pasta, potatoes...anything!! So what perfect timing for a delicious dressing recipe from Ellen, our in-house pastry chef and sister extraordinaire! I know for me, some of the ingredients are a little exotic (you can tell I'm a simple cook!) but keep them on hand and it will force you to use them more often and get creative!! They will last forever says Ellen, and you will find use after use for them! What will you make??

  3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  2 tablespoons peanut butter
  2 teaspoons brown sugar
  3/4 teaspoon hot chile paste
  1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (or powdered)
  3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
  1 tablespoon sesame oil

This dressing was great with a salad made of romaine, chicken, mandarin oranges and cashews. Oh, and I threw in some crunchy noodles in there for good measure!! Enjoy!