This article is a part of "The Amish Cook Column", a weekly series of featuring a story & recipe from Gloria Yoder, Amish wife & mother of six from Flat Rock, Illinois
Everyone arrived at our small, white country schoolhouse. It was a day when everyone gathered to celebrate another successful school year. We had taken very few days off throughout the term, so school was letting out early for the year. Children played happily on the playground, and smiles were as common as the cheery yellow dandelions on the lawn. (scroll down for the Ultimate Tossed Salad!)
By 9:30, we were all seated, ready for the 20 children and 2 teachers to file in and share the program they had diligently practiced. It looked stunning with girls wearing raspberry dresses, and the boys gray shirts, all sewed by the teachers for year-end gifts.
In no time, Hosanna was begging to go sit with Julia. "You may go sit with her when they're done with the program," Daddy assured. After two congregational songs and a brief devotional by our deacon, the children stood to sing in beautiful harmony. Then, in perfect unison, they recited Max Lucado's story, "You are Special", in poem form, with most of it written by my mother.
Next, Julia and the five other little girls sang a song. To my mother heart, it was just too sweet.
I was amazed how perfectly they sang songs and recited all 21 verses of "You Are Special" in various increments. As soon as the last notes died away, Hosanna dashed up and into Julia's arms.
Next, there were the congratulations to the graduates, a word of thanks to the drivers who brought children to school, and finally, a prayer of thanks was offered for the food which had been prepared.
Nate Zehrs had graciously grilled chicken in honor of their daughter graduating eighth grade. Besides the delicious chicken, there were herbed potatoes, wedding salad, cheesecakes, pie, and hot drinks.
The children and youth had scarcely finished eating when they rushed off to play softball, a high lite for all on our annual school picnics. The best game is the dads playing against their upper-grade children. Hats off to the upper-graders, they won!
For the pre-scholars, who are too young to play ball, we had a fishing game. First, we had activities for them to get their 'fishing license.' First, we talked about the word "praise" and introduced them to the verse, "Praise ye the Lord." Soon they were saying what they're thankful for, then I'd repeated it, saying, "Yes! Thank you, Jesus, for Mom and Daddy!" (Or whatever they were thankful for.) "See how easy it is to praise God? You just say, 'Thank you, God'!" Next, we had a little discussion on how God also made our mouth to praise with songs and sang, We Praise thee O God. Last, when the children recited their little verse, they got their 'fishing pole', consisting of a stick with fish line string and a clothespin as the hook. They cast into the 'pond', a large box. Julia and one of her friends sat inside the box, fastening goodie baggies filled with snacks, balloons, and a pair of sunglasses.
By the time we were done, finger foods and drinks were being set out for all to enjoy. There's always an extensive array of homemade goodies to choose from, along with ice cream cones and drinks.
Next, Stephen Wengerd showed the children a kite he brought along for them to watch. Jesse, who loves heights, was utterly impressed. He didn't miss a beat, taking everything in with his big blue eyes. Looking at Stephen, he said, "If I had one of those things (kites) fastened to my arms, I could fly way up there!"
All too soon, the day was over. Needless to say, when we returned home, Daniel and I made plans to put everyone to bed early; it had been a big day for everyone. "You mean we are going to bed already?" Julia wanted to know, "I expected it to be only mid-afternoon." Surely time flies when you're having fun!
Okay, so here you go withthe Ultimate Tossed Salad that we served at the program. It's always hit no matter what!
Lots of good stuff in this salad!
🥬 Start with fresh, high-quality ingredient
Tossed salad is a classic dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a main course. But what makes a perfect tossed salad? From choosing the right greens to adding the perfect dressing, this ultimate guide has everything you need to know to create a delicious and healthy salad. Plus, we've included some tasty recipes to inspire your next creation.
The key to making a perfect tossed salad is starting with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Choose a variety of greens, such as spinach, arugula, and romaine lettuce, and add in some colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Don't forget to include some protein, such as grilled chicken or tofu, and some crunch, like croutons or nuts. When it comes to dressing, opt for a homemade vinaigrette or a light and tangy dressing to complement the flavors of the salad.
Here are some other tips:
- Use a variety of greens. This will add color and flavor to your salad. Some popular greens include romaine lettuce, arugula, spinach, and kale.
- Wash the greens thoroughly. It is important to wash the greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or bacteria. You can wash them in a salad spinner or by hand.
- Chop the vegetables. If you are using vegetables in your salad, chop them into bite-sized pieces. This will make them easier to eat.
- Add the dressing. Just before serving, add the dressing to the salad and toss to coat.
There are also several "ways" you can make a "tossed salad", which one sounds good to you?
- The classic way: This is the most basic way to make a tossed salad. Simply wash and tear your lettuce into bite-sized pieces, then add your desired vegetables and toppings. Drizzle with your favorite dressing and toss to coat.
- The hearty way: For a more filling salad, add some protein, such as grilled chicken, fish, tofu, or beans. You can also add some nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for extra nutrients and flavor.
- The creative way: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding different types of lettuce, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and dressings. You can also add some cooked pasta or quinoa for a heartier salad.
- The healthy way: If you're looking for a healthy salad, choose lean protein, low-fat dressing, and plenty of vegetables. You can also add some whole grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, for extra fiber.
Now, check out Gloria's recipe and you can make it any "way" you like!
🥗 Ultimate Tossed Salad Ingredients
Salad:
- 1 head romaine lettuce
- ½ head ice berg lettuce
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup chopped bacon
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 ½ cup corn chips
- 1 cup chow mien noodles
- 1 cup dressing
Dressing:
- ¼ cup vinegar
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- ¼ cup mayo
- 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¾ teaspoon poppy seeds
- ½ teaspoon salt
📋 Instructions
- For the salad, mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
- For the dressing: Mix and refrigerate until well combined.
- This will keep in the fridge for months, so Gloria makes up to 10 batches at a time, as jer family eats lots of salads!
- Also, she prefers using olive oil and healthy alternatives such as xylitol and stevia instead of sugar.
🥗 More Amish Salads
Broccoli Salad - Classic!
Amish Wedding Salad - So good!
5 Amish Spring Salads - delicious!
🖨️ Salad Recipe
Amish Ultimate Tossed Salad
Ingredients
- 1 head head romaine or iceberg lettuce
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup bacon chopped
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 ½ cup corn chips
- 1 cup chow mein noodles
- 1 cup salad dressing (see below)
Salad ressing
- ¼ cup vinegar
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- ¼ cup mayo
- 2 tablespoons mustard prepared
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¾ teaspoon poppy seeds
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Salad
- Mix all together, serve immediately.
Dressing
- Mix and refrigerate.
- This will keep in the fridge for months; with all the salads we eat, I make up to 10 batches at a time!
- I also prefer using olive oil andhealthy alternatives such as xylitol and stevia instead of sugar.
Sheila Chilcote-Collins
This sounds delicious and I plan on preparing it soon. However, I have one question: Are there BOTH corn chips AND Chow Mein noodles in this salad?
Thanks in advance!
Kevin Williams
Yes, Sheila, there are both in the recipe. A delicious salad, let me know how yours turns out!
Pat Turner
The recipe I show does not have Chow Mein noodles listed. How much do I need to add to this recipe?
Kevin Williams
Hi, Pat, I revised the recipe to reflect the Chow Mein noodles, it should have both corn chips and chow mein noodles, one cup of chow mein noodles.
Kimberly
Can you make this dressing without mustard as I am allergic to mustard. Will I need to substitute something else to balance the flavour and if so then what? Thank you so much am looking forward to preparing this.
Kevin Williams
Just skip the mustard, the dressing may not "hold together" quite as well without it, but it'll taste fine.