It's Almost Time for Salads!

I LOVE a good salad, but not in the winter.  I just can't seem to get excited about a hothouse tomato, wilty lettuce and soft cucumbers.  Just doesn't do it for me.  BUT, as the warmer weather begins to slowly creep into Hotlanta, I can see my favorite salads on the horizon, complete with homegrown produce.  Here are some favorites -

 Grilled Chicken Salad with Homemade Ranch Dressing

 Chef Salad Buffet

Spring Lettuce Mix with Grilled Chicken and Homemade Vinaigrette



Now, I love my salads, but I adore my dressing.  And I am very particular about it, honestly I am a salad dressing snob.  I prefer to make my own dressing and will try countless recipes to find the perfect ones.  These are my favorites -

Homemade Ranch Dressing

from My Homemade Happiness

Creamy Lemon Pepper Parmesan Dressing

from Rachel Ray

*** this is spicy.  I reduce the amount of pepper by half. 

Honey Mustard Dressing

adapted from The Southern Living Ultimate Cookbook

3/4 c sour cream

1/4 c mayonnaise

3 T Dijon mustard

1/4 c honey

1/2 T cider vinegar

1/8 t ground red pepper

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl, stirring with a wire whisk until smooth.  Cover and chill.  Serve over salad greens, with sweet potatoes fries or your favorite chicken fingers.

I'm looking for a great creamy dressing with cilantro and a good 1000 Island recipe.  If you have one I'd love to try it! 

Linking up to
Beauty and Bedlam
It's A Blog Party
Tuesday Night Supper Club
What's On the Menu
Full Plate Thursday
Frugal Food Thursday

Ingredient Spotlight - Honey