Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Picnic season is in full swing and this salad is a family favorite. Though it takes a bit of time to cut up all the vegetables, the effort is well worth the end result. A satisfying crunch wrapped in a wonderful sweet and sour sauce with just a touch of smokiness from the bacon (how can you go wrong with bacon?) makes a perfect side dish for any BBQ or potluck picnic.

1 large bunch broccoli - separate into bite-size florets

1 large head cauliflower - cut into bite-size pieces

8-10 bacon strips - fry crispy, then cool and crumble

1/4 lb sharp cheddar cheese, cubed

Small bunch chives, snipped

Optional ingredients - sunflower seeds, raisins, chopped tomatoes, 2 hard boiled eggs peeled and sliced.

Combine all ingredients in a large salad bowl. Set aside.

Dressing:

1/3 cup sugar

2 Tablespoons white wine or cider vinegar

1 cup mayonnaise

Whisk together dressing ingredients and pour over salad. Toss until well coated and refrigerate.

I'm off to start cutting broccoli in preparation for this afternoon's picnic. Enjoy!!

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Oreo Ice Cream Dessert

I've been brainstorming in vain for a new recipe to make for our fairly regular Memorial Day picnic. This year it will be at a friend's house, and I wanted something new and exciting that would leave people asking, "can I get that recipe?!" My friend Robyn saved the day when she shared this delicious dessert that apparently is a hit for her family. I can't wait to give this a try next weekend!

In a 13x9" baking dish, place a layer of crushed Oreos (flavor of choice - I'm going to use mint).
Add a 1" layer of ice cream of choice (I'm going to use french vanilla)
Next, drizzle half a jar of favorite hot fudge sauce (I'll use my own recipe - to follow)
Repeat another lay of crushed Oreos, followed by another layer of ice cream.
Top with favorite whipped topping and sprinkled with more crushed Oreos.

Freeze "hard" before serving (at least a couple of hours).

Mom's Hot Fudge Sauce

2/3 cup baking cocoa
6 Tablespoons butter
1 cup evaporated milk
2 cups powdered sugar

In a medium sized sauce pan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in cocoa. Stir in milk and sugar alternately. Bring to a boil and boil while stirring for 5 minutes. Remove from heat allow to cool just a bit as the sauce will thicken.

Thanks Robyn!!

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