Melon Blueberry Dressed-Up Salad

When I was a child, my parents entertained a lot. Our home often buzzed with foreign or local visitors. My mother would cook beautiful multi-course meals to spoil our guests. She was a wonderful cook. I say: "she was" because she no longer cooks. She jokes that she forgot how to. Funny Maman!

Although I miss her homemade pasta, gnocchi and profiteroles, I have to say that I get a thrill from having her crave my food for a change. My style is very different than hers. I may serve elegant dishes but it's always in a casual atmosphere. I don't use fine china or crystal glasses. Instead, I let the food speak for itself on simple white plates. One presentation she use to make that I still love is using small melons or avocado halves as salad bowls. It was always magical to me: a sure sign that the rest of the meal would be delectable. She would put so much effort, care and generosity in her offerings and for that I am forever thankful.



Just like my mother's use of fruits as bowls, creating a creamy sauce to coat melons and berries elevates the humble fruit to elegant status. It may not be reinventing the wheel but it's delightful never-the-less.

This one goes to Holler host this month of No Crouton Required.



Blueberry Melon Salad with Yogurt Maple Dressing (serves 6)
I love to make fruit salads as part of the meal but feel free to use this delicious summer salad as a dessert as well.

Ingredients:
2 cups of Blueberries
3 cups of melon balls, or large dices ( Cantaloupe or Charentais melon)



Yogurt Dressing:
1/2 cup lowfat plain yogurt (goat, soy, or regular okay)
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon roasted almond oil
1 tablespoon finely chopped mint
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Place the fruit in a strainer and let the juices drain out. In a medium/large bowl mix all the ingredients for the dressing in a bowl and mix well. Transfer the drained fruit into the bowl with the dressing and mix gently. Refrigerate until ready to serve or serve immediately.



Other fruity recipes:
Velvety Apricot Soup with Blueberries
Quick and Simple Jam