I remember the first time that I was told that one needs to “massage kale” before they can eat it...

’m a big believer in making your own salad dressing for a few reasons. One, it is way more cost effective. Two, you can make it in less than five minutes with items in your pantry. Finally and perhaps the best part, you can change things a little here and there to make it perfect just for you! Here is my Honey Balsamic Salad Dressing that compliments nearly any salad, but my personal favorite is with romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, goat cheese, and topped with candied pecans for a little sweet crunch.

I love making this Beet, Carrot, and Arugula Salad in the winter time and early spring because all these delicious root veggies are in season. I am always looking for new ways to add some greens and the arugula pairs so well with the beets and carrots.

As spring sets in upon the ranch I find myself craving lighter meals like salads, but I also find that made at home salads can become monotonous and frankly boring. That’s why I love this Butter-Lettuce salad with an Avocado-Buttermilk dressing. The dressing is easily whipped up with just a few ingredients!

Lima beans are a summer staple on the ranch. Farmers have been growing these big, meaty beans on the Central Coast for generations, and we enjoy them in a variety of dishes throughout the year.