Mozzarella Pasta Salad

Good for hot days, 'cuz you know, we have a lot of those here in November. But really, some fresh homemade bread, a glass of iced tea and you're set.

10 oz. bag of fresh spinach

2 c. cooked pasta (I use shells- the medium sized ones)

1 c. diced ham or salami

1 c. diced mozzarella

Combine in bowl.

Dressing

1 c. canola oil

1/2 c. grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 tsp. pepper

1/4 vinegar- I use white wine or rice wine

1 clove garlic

Mix the dressing ingredients in the blender,pour over salad and serve immediately

* don 't add the dressing until you are ready to serve, and go easy on the dressing, a little goes a loooonnnngggg way*

French Dressing

Homemade dressings are (usually) SO much better than store bought. B. really likes French, I think its okay. Until I tried this one. It is delicious, and makes a vat of dressing.

1/2 a medium onion, quartered

2 Tbsp. lemon juice

3/4 c. ketchup

3/4 c. vegetable oil

1/2 c. vinegar (I use cider vinegar)

1/2 c. sugar

1/2-3/4 tsp. salt

In a food processor or blender, puree onion and lemon juice until smooth. Add remaining ingredients and blend until smooth. Store in refrigerator, shake well before using.

Yield: 2-1/2 cups.