Summer Salads

I love good salads.  Not the crappy iceberg, tasteless, store-bought tomatoes and french dressing versions of yesteryear, but real salads that are a meal in themselves.  And it's summer, so the fresh and in-season ingredient possibilities for your salads are nearly endless.

The other day I had some just-picked green beans on hand.  So I roasted them along with garlic, onions and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.  Then I piled a plate high with romaine and cucumbers.  Feeling even more adventurous, I took some day-old homemade bread, tossed in olive oil, salt and pepper, and made some fresh baked croutons.  Finally, I added freshly grated Parmesan, and drizzled on some homemade dressing. I adored every bite.

Red Wine / Dijon Vinaigrette

3 T. Red Wine Vinegar
2 T. Olive Oil
1 T. Dijon Mustard
Pinch of sugar
Fresh ground pepper (to taste)

Whisk all ingredients together well and toss into your salad.  Enjoy!