I have been eating more salads lately in an attempt to not regain weight, which has thus far been working.  I haven’t gained any of the weight I lost, and seem to stay in a 3 lb weight fluctuation.  Not too bad.

Anyways, I really like a dressing that is on a salad that a local deli makes.  They do sell the dressing, however it has a short expiration date and it is expensive.  Here is my version of it, while not perfectly the same it still has the right flavors and is yummy (and much cheaper!).  Put this on a salad of spinach, strawberries, goat cheese, walnuts (or sliced almonds), and optional grilled chicken and you will have a wonderful taste explosion in your mouth.  I also just pair it up with spinach, avocado, almonds, craisons and feta for a quick and filling weekday salad.

Dressing:

2 TBSP Rosemary, fresh, minced fine
2 TBSP Brown sugar
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/3 to 1/2 cup olive oil

Take the rosemary off of the stems and mince fine.  Mix together with all the other ingredients, except the olive oil.  Once everything is combined, start slowly pouring the olive oil into the bowl while wisking it well*.  It will all emulsify together and there you have a yummy dressing!  Let it sit a bit before using if you can, that way the flavors combine better.  Make sure to shake or stir it up before using and you are good to go!

* I love this little wisk from Pampered Chef, and I put the dressing in their 2-cup prep bowls that have covers.  Yes, I should be a consultant for Pampered Chef…I have so much of their stuff!