Salad’s don’t need to be complicated to be delicious. I often throw one together with fresh vegetables I have in my fridge – lettuce, endive, kale, cucumbers, carrots, celery, herbs, whatever is available. It’s nice to toss some crumbled cheese on top too. I love gorgonzola or goat’s cheese, and a nut, seed or dried fruit can be a nice addition as well.

I always have this simple vinaigrette recipe on hand. It’s the easiest thing to make, so there’s no reason to buy store bought dressings any longer. Plus, many of them are filled with sugar. By mixing a few ingredients together that you probably have in your pantry, you will have the most delicious dressing and your guests will think you’re a rock star.

Classic Vinaigrette

1 Tbsp. finely diced shallot

1 Tbsp. good French mustard – I like Dijon style

Juice from ½ a fresh lemon

1 Tbsp. red wine vinegar

Pinch of coarse sea salt & freshly ground pepper

1 Cup good olive oil

¼ Cup Avocado oil

In a jar, add the mustard, lemon, vinegar, salt and pepper. Shake it well to combine. Add the oils and shake vigorously until combined and emulsified. Taste for seasoning and adjust if needed. Pour enough to coat each leaf to a beautiful glossy finish. This salad would be perfect with lemon thyme roasted chicken and a crusty baguette.