Grilled Corn and Quinoa Summer Salad

Two grains, corn and quinoa, share an ancient history as important crops in the developing Americas. IN THIS ISSUE, we’ve made them the cornerstone of a salad that’s hearty, and nutritionally balanced enough to be the main entrée. Grilled sweet corn only gets tastier with the addition of healthy quinoa, summer-ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a bright lemony vinaigrette.

Grilled Corn and Quinoa Summer Salad
Serves 8-10

Ingredients:
1 cup quinoa
1 teaspoon Kosher salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 ears of corn, grilled, kernels removed
1 pint cherry (or grape) tomatoes, quartered
8 large basil leaves, chiffonade
1 medium shallot, finely minced
4 oz. Cotija cheese, crumbled (or Feta)

Dressing Ingredients:
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/4 olive oil
Zest of one lemon
Juice of one lemon, (about 3-4 tablespoons)
2 tablespoons stone-ground Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
1. Prepare the quinoa by cooking in a small saucepan. Combine 1 cup of grain with 2 cups of water salted with Kosher salt. Cover, bring to a boil. Turn off the heat but keep the pan on the burner. Allow the grain to sit and absorb the water, about 15 – 20 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed.

2. Prepare the corn by husking and removing the corn silk. Brush each ear with olive oil and grill over direct, medium heat turning every 2 minutes until all sides are grilled. (Alternatively, the corn may be steamed, boiled, or microwaved). Remove the kernels from the cob.

3. Combine the quinoa, corn kernels, tomatoes, basil, shallot, crumbled cheese in a large bowl and toss. 4. Whisk the dressing together by combining all dressing ingredients together and whisking vigorously.

5. Pour the dressing over the quinoa and corn, toss well to combine evenly. Refrigerate and allow the salad to rest and the flavors to blend for about an hour.

Fresh Strawberry and Mango Salad and Creamy Balsamic Dressing

Fresh Strawberry and Mango Salad and Creamy Balsamic Dressing
Makes 2 Salads

Both savory and sweet, this balanced salad celebrates fresh summer fruits and crisp greens. The creamy balsamic vinaigrette, fresh strawberries, and sliced mango add color and a touch of sweetness to the heartier elements of red onion, avocado, and pecans. This salad is a true delight!

Salad Ingredients:
2 cups gem lettuce or bibb lettuce, rinsed and dried
2 cups baby spinach, rinsed and dried
1 mango, peeled, pitted, and halved
1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced 1/2 cup pecans, toasted

Directions:

Creamy Balsamic Dressing Ingredients:
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
1-2 tablespoons sour cream
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 clove garlic, minced

1. Whisk together the creamy balsamic dressing ingredients and set aside.

2. Create mango rosettes by slicing each half into very thin pieces. Fan out the slices of one half by slowly moving the slice at an angle on a large cutting board. Do not fully separate slices. Continue moving the slices until one long strip is created and the slices are slightly overlapping. Starting at one end, carefully roll the end slice tightly onto itself (this is the center of the rosette). Continue wrapping the long section of slices into itself until you reach the other end.

3. In a large bowl, use tongs to lightly toss the salad dressing with the lettuce and spinach. Add the remain- ing salad ingredients and toss once more (be careful not to over toss or avocados may begin to break down).

4. Use a large spatula to lift mango rosettes from the cutting board and onto the top of the salad and serve.

Grilled Mushroom and Grana Padano Salad

Grilled Mushroom and Grana Padano Salad
Makes 4 salads

This salad is filled with rich, savory flavors! Earthy, grilled mushrooms absolutely shine when paired with bitter arugula, aromatic celery, and nutty grana padano cheese. Bright lemon flavors add a layer of piquancy, while the buttery pine nuts add a nice crunch. Your taste buds will be delighted and your hungry stomach satisfied.

Salad Ingredients:
24 baby Bella mushrooms, halved
24 fresh shiitake mushrooms
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
8 cups arugula
1 cup peas
2 stalks celery, thinly sliced with a mandoline
1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
1/2 cup thinly shaved Grana Padano

Directions:
Dressing Ingredients:
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/3 cup olive oil
1/4 teaspoon cayenne
1 teaspoon celery seed
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon shallot, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

1. Preheat the grill. In a large bowl, toss the mushrooms in 1/4 cup olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon salt. In two batches, place the mushrooms in a grill basket and grill until mushrooms are tender and lightly browned, using tongs to turn the mushrooms halfway through cooking. To prevent steaming, do not crowd the mushrooms or stack them on top of each other. Remove mushrooms from heat. Repeat with the second batch of mushrooms and set aside.

2. In a salad dressing shaker jar, or a wide-mouthed jar, or bowl, whisk the dressing ingredients together.

3. Toss the arugula, peas, and celery with the dressing.

4. Plate the mixture of greens. Top with the grilled mushrooms, toasted pine nuts, and Grana Padano.

Salt & Vinegar Potato Salad

Potato salads are not always cold – they’re delicious when served warm as well. (And, they are all not laden with mayonnaise!) This potato salad is dresssed with a vinaigrette-style dressing that is delicious when served warm (or cold). Serves about 6.

Ingredients:
2 pounds fingerling potatoes
1 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons Old Bay Seasoning
1 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

For Garnishing:
1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
1/2 red onion, very thinly sliced
2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Vinaigrette Dressing:
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons fresh dill
kosher salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
1. Scrub the potatoes well. In a large pot, boil the potatoes in water and 1 cup of apple cider vinegar until fork tender, roughly 15-20 minutes. depending on the size of the potatoes.
2. Preheat the grill to medium high heat. Cut the pre-cooked potatoes in 1" chunks and toss them in the olive oil, Old Bay Seasoning, salt, and pepper. Place the seasoned potatoes in a grill basket.
3. Grill the potatoes, stirring often, until they turn golden brown and begin to get crispy edges. Remove from the heat.
4. Whisk together the dressing ingredients and toss with the grilled potatoes while they are still warm until coated evenly.
5. Garnish with the green onions, chopped red onion, and parsley.

Macerated Citrus Salad

Warm ginger and tropical coconut are a welcome complement to tart and tangy citrus in this macerated salad. The unique flavors just may become your new favorite way to serve oranges and grapefruit!
Serves 6.

Ingredients:
2 grapefruit
2 navel oranges 
1 tablespoon orange juice 
3 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
1 bunch fresh basil, julienned
2 tablespoons toasted coconut flakes

Directions:
1. Supreme the citrus fruits by using a sharp paring knife to remove the peel and pith from the grapefruit and oranges. Remove whole segments of fruit by cutting between the membranes and popping out each segment.
2. In a large bowl, toss the citrus pieces with the orange juice, sugar, ginger.
3. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator, for at least one hour to allow the flavors to blend.
4. Serve with the thin strips of basil and the toasted coconut flakes.

Farro Salad with Roasted Asparagus, Peas, and Feta with a White Wine Vinaigrette

This hearty salad is filled with wholesome farro and spring green vegetables. A duo of snap peas and fresh peas pairs well with the roasted asparagus, vibrant mint, and salty feta. A simple, but flavorful, vinaigrette marries all of the elements together quite nicely! Serves 6.

Ingredients:
1-1/2 cups farro
3 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 bunch asparagus, cut into 1" pieces
Olive oil, Kosher salt, pepper for roasting asparagus
1-1/2 cups fresh baby peas, blanched (or 10 oz. frozen)
6 oz fresh snap peas, cut on a bias
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
10 mint leaves, julienned

White Wine Vinaigrette Dressing:
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon stone-ground mustard
1 clove of garlic, crushed
1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Cook the farro in the broth seasoned with salt according to package instructions.
3. On a large baking sheet, drizzle the asparagus pieces with olive oil and roll around to coat. Sprinkle the asparagus with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Roast the asparagus in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until just crisp tender. to the tip of a knife.
4. Blanch the peas. Using a pasta pot with a steamer basket, dip the peas into boiling water for one minute, then plunge into an ice water bath to stop them from overcooking.
5. Slice the snap peas into thin slices on a bias.
6. Mix the dressing together with an immersion blender or by whisking vigorously. Pour the mixed dressing over the cooked farro. Allow the farro to cool before adding the remainder of the ingredients.
7. Add the roasted asparagus, blanched peas, and snap peas to the cooked and cooled farro. Toss to mix together with the dressing.
8. Sprinkle the top of the salad with the feta cheese and fresh mint.

Asparagus & Melon Salad with Fresh Mozzarella and Crispy Prosciutto

Perfectly roasted asparagus is like placing a spring bouquet on a plate. Flavor complements are added with a generous garnish of juicy, ripe cantaloupe, fresh mozzarella, and crispy prosciutto. A sweet balsamic drizzle finishes the dish. Serves 2-4.

Ingredients:
2-4 oz prosciutto
1 lb of asparagus, washed and ends trimmed off
Olive oil, kosher salt, pepper for roasting asparagus
1/2 cantaloupe, diced into 3/4" cubes
4 oz fresh mozzarella ciliegine (small cherry-sized balls), halved
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil reduced balsamic for drizzling (see instructions below)

Balsamic Reduction Ingredients:
2 cups balsamic vinegar

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place each piece of prosciutto on the parchment. Swirl the prosciutto in a little circle so that the ends don't get burnt. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until just crispy. Remove from the parchment and cool on a wire cooling rack.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the asparagus for roasting. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Kosher salt and pepper. Roast for 10-15 minutes, or until just crisp tender to the tip of a knife.
3. While the asparagus is roasting, prepare the melon and fresh mozzarella. Toss the diced melon and cheese with the lemon juice and olive oil.
4. Serve the salad by topping the roasted asparagus with the melon and cheese, and garnish with the crispy prosciutto and a drizzle of balsamic reduction.

Directions for Making a Balsamic Reduction:
To make a balsamic vinegar reduction, place 2 cups of balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan and cook gently over medium heat. Do not boil. Stir occasionally and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the amount of liquid is reduced by half. The consistency will change from watery to a thicker, syrupy character. Remove the balsamic reduction from heat and set aside in a small bowl.

Roasted Beet Salad

This roasted beet salad is both eye-catching and delicious. The jewel-toned roasted beets, earthy and sweet, are punctuated by spicy arugula, creamy goat cheese, and toasted Marcona almonds. The vibrant dressing ties all of the flavors together for a very pleasing holiday side salad. Serves 6.

Ingredients:
6 red beets, peeled and cut into 1/4" thick slices
3 tablespoons olive oil for roasting the beets
Kosher salt and pepper, for roasting
5 ounces fresh goat cheese, crumbled
5 ounces arugula
1/4 cup Marcona almonds, toasted

Dressing:
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons shallot, minced
1 teaspoon honey
Pinch of kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Wash, peel, and slice the beets. Spread in a single layer on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with Kosher salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping over halfway during cooking. Roast until fork tender.
2. Toast the almonds in a dry skillet until just fragrant and showing signs of a golden brown color on some edges; stir often to avoid scorching.
3. Meanwhile, prep the dressing by whisking all of the ingredients together. Toss the arugula with the dressing.
4. Place the roasted beets on top of the bed of the dressed greens, sprinkle with the goat cheese crumbles, and toasted nuts.
5. Serve immediately

Flank Steak Summer Salad

This salad is filled with goodness! Featuring flank steak in a salad just may convince meat lovers that a salad can be a satisfying dinner. Flank steak grilled to a perfect medium-rare is thinly sliced, and then served on a bed of summer’s best vegetables. Ripe slices of heirloom tomatoes, peppery arugula, creamy avocado, ribbons of cucumber, fresh basil, and a red wine vinaigrette will elevate your salad game to new heights. Serves 4.

Steak Ingredients:
16 oz flank steak
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon pepper

Salad Ingredients:
4 cups arugula
1/2 English cucumber, shaved into ribbons
1 shallot, thinly sliced
2 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into wedges
1 avocado, sliced
Parmesan cheese, shaved
6 fresh basil leaves, chiffonade cut for garnish

Red Wine Vinaigrette:
Makes about 1/3 cup:
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon shallot, finely minced
1 teaspoon
Dijon mustard Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
1. Drizzle the flank steak with the olive oil and Worcestershire sauce on both sides. Sprinkle both sides generously with kosher salt and pepper. Allow the steak to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling.
2. Grill the steak! Fire up the grill, preheat to high. Place the steak on the grill, and cook for 5 minutes, flip once, and cook for another 5 minutes. Continue grilling and flipping until the internal temperature reaches 135 degrees F for medium-rare. Remove the steak from the grill, and let it rest for 10 minutes. Cut the steak into strips against the grain.
3. Prepare the tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, shallot, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Make the vinaigrette by whisking all ingredients together until well-combined.
5. Mix the salad together in a large bowl by adding the arugula, cucumber ribbons, and shallot together, and tossing with the vinaigrette. Divide into bowls or plates, and top with the grilled steak, tomato slices, avocado, and Parmesan cheese shavings. Garnish with ribbons of fresh basil.

Nectarine, Raspberry & Grilled Chicken Salad

Both savory and sweet - this balanced salad celebrates fresh summer fruits and crisp greens. The nectarine-poppyseed vinaigrette, fresh raspberries, and sliced nectarines add color and a touch of sweetness to the heartier elements of grilled chicken, almond slices, and goat cheese. This salad is a true delight! Serves 2-4.

Ingredients:

Grilled Chicken:
2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon oregano

Salad Ingredients:
4 cups baby spring greens mix
3 scallions, sliced
1 nectarine, sliced
6 ounces raspberries
3 tablespoons sliced almond
4 ounces fresh goat cheese, crumbled

Nectarine-Poppyseed Vinaigrette:
Makes about 1/2 cup:
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon champagne vinegar
1 nectarine
2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon poppy seeds
1 tablespoon honey
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in a bowl and drizzle with the olive oil and lemon juice. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika and oregano on both sides. Let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes.
2. Fire up the grill! When using a gas grill, prepare half of the grill with high heat while keeping the other half on low heat -- that is, use a direct/indirect set-up. Add the chicken to the cooler side of the well-oiled grill and close the lid. After 4-5 minutes, turn once and cook an additional 4-5 minutes. Continue to grill and flip, as needed, until the thickest part of the breast reaches 160 degrees F. After removing the chicken from the grill, the heat in the chicken breast will continue to rise until it hits the food-safe temperature of 165 degrees F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then cut into slices.
3. Prepare the vinaigrette by blending all ingredients together in a small food processor unti well-combined.
4. Assemble the salad by gently tossing the spring greens mix and sliced green onions with the vinaigrette. Place in individual bowls or plates, and top with the nectarine slices, grilled chicken slices, raspberries, almond slices, and goat cheese. Serve and enjoy.