MARCH MAPLE SYRUP TIME in MICHIGAN ~ CLASSIC MICHIGAN SALAD

"Springtime is the land awakening.

The March winds are the morning yawn. "

~ Lewis Grizzard

~ Maple leaves

____________

"The history of Michigan Maple Syrup is nearly as old as the land itself! Native Americans were making maple syrup here centuries ago. Today, Michigan maple syrup is made both traditionally and in modern facilities using the latest refinement technologies. But the taste of pure maple syrup is as irresistibly delicious today as it was for our ancestors."

~ Michigan Maple Syrup Scrapbook

____________

CLASSIC MICHIGAN SALAD

~ Featured fare in many Michigan restaurants, each a bit different, but should include two cherished products, dried cherries and maple syrup.

______________

8-12 oz. organic baby spring mix greens

(a healthy handful of per person)

thin slices of red onion

1/4 cup or desired amount of blue cheese

1/2 cup toasted walnuts or pecans

1/2 cup dried Michigan cherries

Toss greens lightly with vinaigrette. Top with onion rings, blue cheese, toasted nuts and dried cherries. (about 4 servings).

Note: For a heartier meal, try salad topped with grilled chicken breasts.

RASPBERRY VINAIGRETTE

1/2 cup raspberry vinegar
1 cups canola oil
1/2 cup Michigan maple syrup
2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh tarragon leaves (1 tsp. dried)
1/2 tsp. coarse salt

freshly ground pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients ahead to allow flavors to meld.