Homemade salad dressing is a little something special when you make your own and with the garden currently in full abundance mode now is the time to make a few favorites. It seems like the rabbits are enjoying more leaf lettuce than I am, but in this part of Colorado I guess we need to expect that. This is just a few of my favorites and keep in mind you can always add a herb or two, but be careful, they can change the total flavor of the dressing.

For the best ever tomato and cucumber salad try:

ITALIAN TOMATO DRESSING

1/2 cup salid oil

1/3 cup cider vinegar

1 small can tomato sauce (8 oz)

2 Tblsp sugar

1 tsp dry mustard

1 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp oregano leaves

2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

1/2 clove garlic, minced

2 tsp minced onion

1 Tblsp minced celery

2 Tblsp mayonnaise

Combine all ingredients in a small mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer beat on medium for 2 – 3 minutes. Chill well.

FRENCH DRESSING

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1/8 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp sugar

1/4 tsp paprika

1/2 dry mustard

1 cup olive oil

In the bowl of a  small electric blender add the red wine vinegar and all seasonings. Blend on high while adding the olive oil very slowly. Chill well. If you like garlic you can add 1 clove fresh crushed garlic at the same time the other seasonings are added.

For any green salad you would like to make special try:

AVOCADO SALAD

1 medium size ripe avocado

1 Tblsp lemon juice

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp chili powder

Pinch garlic powder

Pinch cayenne

Using a hand mixer mash the avocado and lemon juice until smooth. Add all remaining ingredients and mix for one additional minute. This is ready to use.

For a good , fresh fruit salad try:

CREAM CHEESE DRESSING

2 Tblsp mayonnaise

3 ounces cream cheese

1/2 cup sour cream

1 Tblsp grated orange rind

1 Tblsp orange juice

Using a blender add mayonnaise and cream cheese. Blend well. Add remaining ingredients and blend unti well mixed. Chill.

Hope you enjoy these . . . more later.