a new salad

I see the salad on its way to the table. 

My senses rise to respond to it's sheer beauty. My mouth waters. 

I can't wait to taste it and am not disappointed. A harmony of flavors. 

Rich in color, taste and nutrients. I ask our hostess how she made it 

and even email her later to be sure I have the details correct. 

Part of the beauty of the salad is that it is so adaptable. 

Put in it what you want. 

Really!

The lettuce is chopped with a knife.

I thought lettuce is to be torn, not cut with a knife.

But I'm suddenly hearing about chopped salads.

You know how once you are aware of something you notice it everywhere …

When I make it myself I go along with the chopped part.  

And since we are eating it soon after preparation, it is fine.

I chop the lettuce into small pieces and set it in a wide flat bowl.

Then I chop the veggies and fruit.

Strawberries, grapes sliced long-wise, sweet red and yellow bell peppers,

red onions, cherry tomatoes halved in the middle (all this for eye appeal),

squash, apples or pears, dried cranberries. 

That's what I put in but much more could be added. 

Right before serving I generously dress chopped fruit/veggies 

with a sweet creamy dressing I make (or buy).

On top of the bed of chopped lettuce it goes (all kinds of lettuces are welcome).

Bring to the table and watch eyes light up.