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Antipasto Salad

I brought this salad to a birthday party last week and it’s perfect for a big crowd. Add or subtract your favorite toppings because anything goes. It would be perfect for the B-ball game tonight! Cheese Tortellini, cooked to package directions Pesto Jarred Red Peppers, thinly sliced Pepperchinis, sliced Olives ( your favorite Mediterranean ones) Artichoke quarters, in oil and drained Grape Tomatoes, halved Mozzarella, cut into chunks Provolone, cut into long strips Salami, quartered Pepperoni, cut into chunks Mix of Arugula and Romaine Favorite vinaigrette and balsamic for dressing. After you drain the tortellini, toss it with a big helping of pesto. Cut up each ingredient and sprinkle with S&P as you go. The key to variety in this salad is to have a lot of different shapes and sizes of your cheeses, meats, and veggies so don’t keep them completely uniform. Serve with your favorite protein and dinner is served. “I believe every person should be able to make the simple foods that nourish them, that feel familiar and comforting, that tell the story of who they are….

Layered Greek Toast

I love this healthy toast with so many great vegetables and flavors! Turn this into a dip by layering all ingredients on a platter and dipping with Pita chips. Use Pita bread or Naan, toasted (Costco has the great small naan breads) Layer- Chive cream cheese Hummus Tomatoes, chopped Cucumber, chopped Olives, sliced Green onion, sliced thinly Feta cheese (Jalapeño, optional)

Grilled Vegetable Salad

Grilled salads are a summertime staple at our house. The best thing about them is that you can grill anything and everything, no rules! Cover all veggies in EVOO and S&P. Grill or Traeger on high for 10 minutes or until browned. Portobello Mushrooms Corn on the Cob Asparagus Yellow Squash Zucchini Purple Onion Red and Orange Peppers Chop vegetables once cooled. (Let vegetables cool on a paper towel to soak up water). Add fresh tomatoes, goat cheese, and julienned basil. Drizzle more EVOO, balsamic glaze and S&P. ETC. You’ll want to make a lot. You can eat it with anything! Pasta, chicken, pork, over rice, or with eggs. This can also be done roasting in your oven.