Kids Corner… Fun Foods Fast!

Fun Deserts in a Flash

Mixed Baby Lettuce Salad w/Apples, Walnuts, Raisins and Maple Vinaigrette:

6 oz. bag of mixed baby lettuces (place on center of the platter)
4 oz. package of smoked Gouda cheese, (or smoked cheese of your choice)
2 apples; peeled, cored and chucked (Cortland works best because it won’t turn brown…but you can drizzle the apple with lemon juice also)
1 handful of chopped walnuts
1 handful of raisins (any will work)
¼ medium red onion, quartered and thin sliced (optional)
2 tbs. of maple syrup
2 tbs. of extra virgin olive oil
2 tbs. of balsamic vinegar
½ tbs. of Dijon mustard (whisk and warm in microwave 20 sec. prior to serving)

Heap the baby lettuce in a platter or large plate. Top with the apples, walnuts and the red onion if you are using it. You can then place the raisins on top…but I like to sauté them quickly in a little apple cider to partially reconstitute them (I use mixed raisins for some contrast in flavor and color).
In a small measuring cup add the real maple syrup, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard. Wisk and warm the vinaigrette (20 seconds in the microwave). Wisk again and pour over the salad. Place cheese strips or wedges around the edge and serve. (Serves 4 – 6)