Salad Days – Fruity Spinach Salad

This is a salad that gives you leafy greens, fresh and dried fruit, nuts if you want them, and protein from lean chicken.  Oh, and did we mention that it is DELICIOUS too?As the days grow warmer, so does our desire for lighter easier meals.  This salad is bound to be a hit with your whole family.  You can even add some iced nuts for added crunch and taste.  A salad even the kids will eat?….now that’s abundant living!

Fruity Spinach Salad

Baby spinach
chopped celery
chopped green onion
dried cranberries or raisins
sliced fresh strawberries
fresh mango diced
crumbled feta cheese
iced nuts (optional)
Roasted chicken breast, diced

The amount of spinach and other ingredients will depend on the amount of people you are serving.  You can figure about 1/2 of a chicken breast per person.  The other ingredients should each equal about half the amount of chicken you are using.  Toss everything together in a large bowl and add Parsley Dressing.  Use less dressing than you think you will need and lightly toss. Add more dressing as necessary.  Serve immediately.

Parsley Dressing

1 cup white vinegar
1 cup sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 heaping teaspoon black pepper
2 cups sunflower oil (or any light oil of your choice)
1 bunch of Italian flat leaf parsley, stems removed

Place all ingredients in blender and mix thoroughly.  Serve on salad and store any remaining dressing in the refrigerator.