Mini Banana Splits

I had a small dinner party last night for a few friends I hadn't seen in a while.  I surprised them with mini banana splits for dessert.  They were thrilled and acted like little kids.  They hadn't had banana splits in many many years.

I made shortbread sticks dipped in chocolate and sprinkles to stick in them too.

I made hot fudge sauce, caramel sauce and strawberry sauce with local strawberries.  I placed banana wedges in the bowls, added small scoops of vanilla, chocolate and strawberry ice cream, then added candied walnuts, homemade vanilla whipped cream and  fresh cherries.

I made cedar planked salmon which I forgot to photograph and served it with Israeli couscous and spinach sauteed in ramp butter.  Since the meal was sort of simple, I didn't want to serve a bland bread so I created this version of Detroit pizza to serve on the side.  It was such a hit!  Instead of red sauce, I topped the dough with my first pesto of the season, some prosciutto and added cubes of Muenster, Fontina and Cantal  cheeses.  I laid roasted asparagus, sauteed mushrooms and cherry tomatoes on top of the cheese. I sprinkled grated Provolone on top and sprinkled it with some spices.  I will be making this often while fresh asparagus and local mushrooms are available.  I split the dough and made 2 thinner pizzas.  If you use the dough to make one, it will be thick like a traditional Detroit pizza.

People fight over who gets the crispy cheese corners.

I have been making this salad a lot lately.  It's fresh and wonderful.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoon extra light olive oil
• 1/2 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 English cucumbers, cut into half coins
• 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, sliced thin

Instructions

1. Combine lemon juice, sugar, olive oil, poppy seeds, mustard, garlic, salt, and onion powder in a large bowl. Whisk well until dressing is completely combined.
2. Add cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion to the bowl. Toss to combine.
3. Chill until ready to serve.     I double the dressing recipe.

Winnie got groomed.  She has fluffy pants.