Endive Summer Salads

After all those months of wishing for summer and its warmer temperatures, it's finally here. On those days when we can't seem to find relief even in the shade we often crave something cool, light and refreshing. Luckily, endive fits the bill!

Endive can be the base or an addition to a number of salads that are perfect for these hot summer days. The leaves maintain a crisp texture that provides a refreshing crunch to your summer salads.

(Not to mention, each head of endive contains less than 20 calories!)

Here is a guideline for creating an assortment of delicious, simple endive salads:

Base: Red and white California endive

Fruit: Blueberries, peaches, apricots

(Any of your favorite summer fruits will add a sweet addition to your endive salad.)

Cheese: Blue cheese, Gorgonzola, Parmesan

Nuts: Walnuts, pistachios, pumpkin seeds

Dressing: 5 tablespoons rice vinegar, ½ cup olive or sunflower oil, 1 T Dijon mustard, 1 shallot or garlic clove, finely chopped

Have fun with the possibilities & enjoy!