Signature Dishes #1 - A "go-to" salad

One of the things that most gives me comfort is the memory of my Mom's special meals.  When I was growing up we frequently ate the same things - spaghetti, fried chicken (don't judge - I AM from the south) and some yummy chicken casserole we affectionately called "yellow junk".

Now that my kids are older and willing to occasionally try things off the menu that aren't mac and cheese or chicken nuggets, I have begun to make some dishes they  love and even ask for.  I have visions of making a "Mommy's recipe Book" for them one day as they go off to college with recipes of all my (uh, I mean their) favorites.

First off - a go-to salad.  Called go-to because I most often go to it and  I take it often to-go - it is a staple to take to friends houses ...  It is always well received.   Below is how my salad looked as I was walking out the door for dinner last Friday (and please forgive the flash - I am a beginner photographer!)

Go-To Salad
Three cups Spring Mix
1/4 cup chopped candied pecans
1/4 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup dried cranberrries
1/4 cup Goat cheese, Feta Cheese or Bleu cheese

Use an easy balsamic dressing - 1/4 cup balsamic, 1/2 cup good olive oil, salt, pepper and garlic. 

Super yummy!