Usually when I eat a salad it’s because I’m forcing myself to make healthier choices. Inevitably, it’s what I tend to eat when I’ve returned from a vacation and have over-indulged and my body is just screaming for something green or a vegetable. My mindset is usually that of dinner being a protein, a starch and a vegetable—with the vegetable being a potato of some kind, which is technically another starch but let me live. Because of that, I tend to throw in a simple green salad on the side for dinner, since I know my body will thank me for it later. This Steak and Potato Caesar Salad, however, is a salad that I can truly get behind. It’s hearty, satisfying and just a tiny bit over-the-top. Which is exactly how I prefer my salads.
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As you can see with this post, 
I’m a lover of all things potatoes and the thought of a “salad” composed of carbs and sausage and crumbled cheese makes me very excited, because 
I’ve been traveling to New Orleans for over three years now every month to work with my friend 
I always categorize my salads into two different types. There’s the “healthy” salads, loaded with greens and lettuce and good-for-you add-ins. These are the kinds of salads you can feel good about eating because they’re lightly dressed and actually good for you. These are also the salads I depend on when I’ve eaten too many fried foods and want some alleviation from my not-so-healthy choices. The second type of salad, which is the one I lean to the most, are the much heartier salads that actually don’t have much lettuce or greens at all. This Fried Green Tomato and Halloumi Salad is hearty, filling and loaded with so much flavor. A fried green tomato base with fried halloumi, dolloped with a Cajun-style remoulade, feta and micro greens; this is the dish you’ve been waiting for. You might not call it the healthiest salad, or a salad at all, but I certainly think of it as this summer’s salad of choice. 
I know what you’ve been thinking lately, “I’d really love to create a big summer feast with family and friends, but I don’t know where to begin?!” I know this because I went through the exact same thing just recently. Now that Julian and I have moved into a house, we’re looking forward to entertaining more often because we actually have the space for it. With just a few helpful tips and tricks up our sleeves, we can all create an amazing summer get-together that everyone will enjoy. And that’s no joke. The first thing is that you want to keep things simple. Simplicity is key. Now is not the time to make a five course meal that will keep you in the kitchen all day long. You’ll never enjoy the dinner that way. Choose dishes that are seasonal and easy to make; that don’t require too much attention at the stove. A set it and forget it mentality is your friend. Whatever you can create ahead of time will save you a lot of heartache. While casual is best, that doesn’t mean you have to let presentation go out the window. Finally, don’t be afraid of color when it comes to serving and displaying the beautiful food you’ve created. 
