It's Greek to Me Salad Dressing

INGREDIENTS:

· 6 tablespoons (preferably freshly squeezed) lemon juice · 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil, preferably Greek · 3 TBS. Spice Spice Baby's Its Greek to Me seasoning blend plus a 1 TBS for topping the salad as a garnish. · 1 Head romaine lettuce (about 1 pound), trimmed of tough stems and cut into bite-sized pieces · 6 ounces Kalamata olives, about 1 cup · 1/2-pound Feta cheese, crumbled · 1 Cucumber, peeled, seeded and cut into 1-inch chunks · 1 Pint grape tomatoes · 1 Small red onion, cut into 1/2-inch wedges.

· 1 Green pepper, trimmed, seeded, and diced

· ¼ Cup sliced banana peppers

· Optional (roasted chick peas-see recipe on this website)

METHOD:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and oil. Stir in Its Greek to Me seasoning. Set aside.

2. When ready to serve: In a large bowl lightly toss the lettuce with the dressing. Divide the lettuce among 4 salad bowls. Scatter the olives, cheese, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and peppers over the top of the greens.

COMMENTARY:

This salad is easy to make and has an authentic Greek flavor. It can be served as a main course (just add a little grilled chicken or fish to the top) or as a side to accompany a main. I love it with pizza, or pasta, but it works well with just about everything.

Sometimes I toss in fresh oregano (when its in season) right into the salad, like they do in Greece. You can switch up the toppings as you see fit, other options: sundried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, salami or pepperoni, parmesan or fresh mozzarella. You really cant mess this up-so have fun trying new versions of this.