Veggie Tales from Mars

Since most of our family members have been cursed with high cholesterol, many of us are taking steps to eat a healthier diet. I personally love to hear about what my children are cooking up and what tasty new products they discover, because it inspires me and gives me new ideas to try. One of my favorite salad dressings is Creamy Maple Dressing.
CREAMY MAPLE DRESSING
1/2 C Canola oil
1/4 C Maple syrup
1/4 C Vegan mayonnaise
3 Tbsp White wine vinegar
2 tsp sugar or agave nectar
salt/pepper to taste
Whisk together all but oil. Gradually whisk in oil to emulsify and stir until it thickens slightly.
Serve over a bed of mixed greens, chopped apples, dried cranberries, and chopped toasted nuts.

Tip: I like my cranberries plumped. It is as easy as putting cranberries in a bowl of water. Microwave for 30-60 seconds. Drain and cool.

GLAZED NUTS are a nice addition to this salad:
Beat 1 egg white until foamy. Add 1/2 C brown sugar, 1 tsp cloves, 1 tsp ginger, 1 Tbsp vanilla, and 1 pound of nuts. Stir to coat and bake on cookie sheet at 300 degrees for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

CINNAMON CROUTONS are also a nice addition:
Cut hearty bread into cubes. Toss with melted Earth Balance Spread. Then toss with cinnamon and sugar. Bake on cookie sheet at 300 degrees until lightly browned. Cool.