While I typically give reports of my weekend escapades and eating adventures, I do tend to eat a lot of “single people food” during the work weeks. I joke with friends that I’m often times caught in the grocery store by readers hoping they will see ingredients for a feast – but are disappointed by finding an odd assortment of produce, yogurt and cereal (and the occasional frozen lasagna!) in my grocery basket.  My work weeks tend to stay just as hectic as my weekends and I try to eat healthier for balence.

I find that picking up a mix of produce, cheeses, dried fruits and nuts gives me a great variety for salads throughout the week. The more variety I have in my kitchen – the more likely I am to make a healthier dinner and not seek take-out!

So what made this Simple Salad with Honey Balsamic Dressing delicious? A dressing of really good aged balsamic vinegar, lime juice, local honey, salt, pepper and good olive oil. Whisk everything together in that order and taste as you add each ingredient! I like this dressing particularly sweet – it reminds me of the balsamic dressing at Mcouls Pub (which I love).  Mix together dried cranberries, whole raw walnuts, Goat Lady smoked goat cheese, cucumbers and mixed greens. I also added piece of salmon seasoned with salt, pepper and sweet & spicy chipotle paprika. I roasted the salmon for about 10 minutes in a 400 degree oven and finished it off with a quick broil for a crispy top. That’s it! It takes about 20 minutes total time and is a delicious summer meal – that I could eat all week!