Spinach/Romaine Salad

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup aged balsamic vinegar
2 Tbs sugar-free strawberry preserves
freshly ground black pepper to taste
3 1/2 cups torn fresh spinach
3 1/2 cups romaine lettuce leaves
1/3 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
1/4 cup golden raisins
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup plain mini shredded wheat cereal biscuits
1 ripe avocado, sliced

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sugar-free strawberry preserves, and black pepper. In a large bowl, toss together spinach, lettuce, walnuts, raisins, red onion, and shredded wheat biscuits. Drizzle salad dressing over the salad, and toss gently to combine. Serve topped with sliced avocado.

I discovered this recipe while looking for a new way to use my ripe avocados. It was delicious! I didn't even chop the walnuts and I threw in extra walnuts, avocados and shredded wheat.

Cheese Soup

I got this recipe from my 10th grade Home Ec class. It is my favorite soup recipe ever! We usually double or triple it so we have a lot. And it is so delicious if you scoop the inside out of a bread bowl and pour it in. Then dip your bread parts in the soup. Yummy!!! -Donna

2 cups water
2 cups diced potatoes
1/2 cup diced celery
1/2 cup diced carrots
1/4 cup butter
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1/4 cup flour
2 cups milk
1/2 lb grated cheddar cheese
1 cup diced ham
bread bowls (if you want)

Boil the water in a saucepan.
Add all the veggies and boil until soft. Set aside.
In larger saucepan, melt butter.
Add salt, pepper, and flour. Stir until bubbly.
Add milk and undrained veggies. Stir well.
Add cheese and ham and heat until melted.
Enjoy!

-Donna Yeates

My good friend made this for a Super Saturday in Colorado Springs. I have been wishing for the recipe ever since. Thanks! Can't wait to make it with the bread bowls! -Nicole