Spring is here in California and that means amazing fresh fruits and veggies. The farmers markets are jammed packed with colorful carrots, ripe strawberries and tons of other goodies that inspired this weeks recipes. We were in the mood for salad this weekend and vegetable creations were a hit. This weeks decisions were destined for a series of pot luck style dinners, and these brightly colored creations fit the bill perfectly, we didn't even worry about them getting cold! We started off our weekend with a bright Red Beet Salad with Greens. We were a little bit worried that everyone would wonder where the hearty dishes like Potato Leek Gratin or the Ricotta and Spinach Gnocchi were, but the group was happily surprised by the lite but tasty side dish. The original plan was based around golden beets, but after scouring the markets, we there was not a golden beet to be found, so we went with red. Tossed in with the ruby red beets are the sauteed leafy green tops of the root with a bit of garlic and olive oil. This adds an extra punch of vitamins and also adds to the dishes beautiful color. Topped off with an orange vinaigrette, this salad is great tasting and really filling! One helpful hint: Be careful with your beets. Although the color is beautiful, it WILL stain just about anything it touches, including clothes and hands. Soaking your hands with a bit of vinegar after wards will take care of your pink palms. Check out our new wood cutting board! Our good friend Steve Ciccarello made us this beautiful new checkerboard cutting board as a gift and an amazing background on Foodiesathome.com! It is absolutely gorgeous with a pattern of purpleheart, walnut and trimmed in a figured maple finish. We are so excited for a new upgrade in the kitchen and it adds so much to our photos! If you would like your own homemade cutting board let us know and we will put you in touch with Steve! Trust us...you won't be disappointed!
Pictures and Recipe after the break
