Berry Balsamic

Right now Lettuce is in its full splendor. I understand when some people might think that lettuce and salads are boring. I have had those kinds of salads too; Rusty lettuce, with rigid and dry shredded carrots, that need to be doused in dressing to be palatable. I understand your apprehension to be excited about salads.  Really, I do.

You have to understand, garden fresh salads are a million miles from boringville.
The stuff that grows in the Thunder Bay is beautiful. Leaves ranging from pale to dark green to brilliant burgundy. Some with a crunch, and some velvety smooth. Small little leaves of arugula and sorrel to larger leaf lettuces. So today, to accentuate the lovely colours, shapes and flavours of these delectable greens, I am going to share with you an amazing recipe for one of my favourite salad dressings.

Strawberry Balsamic Dressing   
2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled (If you don’t have any, raspberries would be fab as well)
3 leaves of basil (if you like basil)
½ cup of balsamic vinegar
1 TBSP lemon juice
1 TBSP Sugar, honey or maple syrup  (or to taste)
Olive oil

Put the strawberries and basil into a food processor, and puree until smooth.  Place the strawberry basil mixture in a saucepan and add the basil, lemon juice, and sugar. Bring to a simmer, and let reduce by ½. Whisk in your olive oil and serve over your salad- It is as simple as that. A delicious, fresh tasting, and even good for you salad dressing!

What kind of salad should you serve it with? That is ultimately up to you- But here are some wonderful combinations that you could try.

-Spinach, chicken, strawberry and sliced almond
-Arugula, white beans and walnuts
-Cucumber, feta, green onions and tomato
-Watermelon, feta, pistachios
-Tomato, cheese, basil
-Sorrel, avocado, grilled nectarines.
-Butter lettuce, crisped bacon, bleu cheese, maple pecans.
-Snow peas and pine nuts.

Make sure you let me know if you come up with a great salad idea- I am always game to try something new!
Also, if you haven't tried it- plain balsamic vinegar drizzled over fresh strawberries is heavenly!

Originally posted 7/29/2011 on TBnewswatch.com