Peach, Tomato, and Mozzarella Salad

      O.k......this may not seem like a real recipe to you but, rather, a few ingredients arranged on a plate together.  But, it really is more than that.  It's more like....well.......I think of it like when a few old friends get together.....you know, the friends you're used to seeing together, the friends that always seem to be having a great time, thoroughly enjoying each other's company and bringing out the best in each other. 

       And, then....someone new moves into town.  She seems sweet enough.....friendly enough, although no one's sure if she'll really fit in with the already well-established social circle.  But, it's decided that she should be invited to join the group for a little social gathering......to get to know her  a little better....you know, to kind of test the waters.   

Celery and Chickpea Salad w/ Dried Cranberries, Roasted Almonds, and Parmesan Dressing

    O.k....so summer is gone, the kids are back in school, and fall is just about upon us.  Let's enjoy a light and delicious salad before we start to think about all those warm and comforting, cold weather dishes, shall we?

     I really do love salads. I mean.....a salad can be anything you want it to be!   There are soooo many options!  

Delicious Kale Salad

    I know, I know....... it's the very last day of October and you've yet to find any recipes from The Italian Next Door in your inbox or when you've visited the blog this month.  Well, life got a little overwhelming in October.  We were away visiting family for a bit, my oldest son visited us for about a week after that (all the way from Seattle), and there were some family birthday celebrations to prepare for.  Now, don't get me wrong.....I love visiting and celebrating with family......I just found myself a little worn out.  But, I'm feeling better now so, to get the wheels turning again, I thought I'd share a quick and delicious recipe I saw Daphne Oz (of The Chew) make awhile back.  With the addition of dried currants, toasted pine nuts, and Romano cheese, it has the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy!  I LOVE this salad and have no problem eating large amounts of it, which is o.k. because it is sooo good for you!  I mean, everybody's talking about kale these days, right?  It's like a nutrition powerhouse!  If you don't believe me, visit here to read a list of The Top 10 Health Benefits of Eating Kale.  Now, onto the recipe.........

Stuffed Cubanelle Peppers and Radicchio Salad

         Tonight's dinner uses some typical Italian ingredients that can be found pretty easily in your local grocery store.  It can be put together within an hour and is very tasty.  I started with a stuffed pepper recipe in Ciao Italia Pronto by Mary Ann Esposito and then made changes and additions according to what I like.  Here's my version of the recipe. Actually, I make different substitutions each time I make this, according to what I have on hand and what my taste buds are wanting.  So try this out and then change things up if you want to.