Fresh seasonal berries and mint give this vibrant salad a
refreshing burst of flavor. The addition of raspberries to the
homemade vinaigrette lends some natural sweetness to this dish.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: none
Serves: 4

Ingredients:

¼ c. rice wine vinegar
1/3 c. fresh raspberries, washed
2 t. fresh lemon juice
½ c. extra virgin olive oil
½ t. sea salt
1 head Romaine lettuce, washed, stem removed, and chopped
1/3 c. fresh mint, chopped
1 c. fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and sliced
1 c. fresh blackberries, washed
1/3 c. sliced almonds, toasted

Note: Chill salad plates prior to preparing this recipe.

Directions:

Add vinegar, raspberries, lemon juice, and olive oil to a food
processor and blend until smooth. Add salt and taste. Adjust
other flavors to achieve the desired balance. Set aside.

Add lettuce, mint, strawberries, blackberries, and toasted
almonds to a large bowl and gently toss to combine.

Drizzle with raspberry vinaigrette and serve immediately on
chilled salad plates for a refreshing appetizer.

The post Refreshing Mixed Berry Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette appeared first on The Real Chitterlings.com.

Mediterranean-Inspired Quinoa Salad

This quick and easy side dish pairs the bold Mediterranean
flavors of lime, Feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and fresh parsley
against the subtle backdrop of quinoa. Thanks to the naturally
salty flavors of the olive brine and Feta cheese, this dish
doesn’t need any added sodium to help balance the flavors.
However, for best results, you’ll want to make this dish in
advance to give the flavors a chance to blend.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: approximately 20 minutes
Serves 4

Ingredients:

1 c. quinoa, uncooked
2 limes, zest and juice
4 oz. Feta cheese, crumbed
2 oz. Kalamata olives, chopped, with brine
¼ c. fresh parsley, stems removed and chopped

Optional: Black pepper, to taste

Tip: For an added layer of flavor, toast the quinoa over medium
heat before cooking.

Directions:

1. Cook quinoa according to package directions. Remove from heat
and let cool briefly.

2. Fluff quinoa with a fork and stir in lime zest, lime juice,
Feta cheese, chopped olives, and fresh parsley until thoroughly
combined. Season with black pepper, to taste.

3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

The post Mediterranean-Inspired Quinoa Salad appeared first on The Real Chitterlings.com.