It may sound crazy, but here in Alaska, most people are fanatical about fresh fruits and vegetables, demanding the very best (probably because they cost more per pound than meat!) I've had lots of great salads based on seasonally available fruit. Here's one: Wash one head romaine lettuce, tear into bite-sized pieces. Add 1/4 c red onion rings, 1 c fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries, 1/2 c sliced celery, and dress with your favorite vinaigrette. Meanwhile, melt 2 and 1/2 tbsp sugar in small saute pan. Add 1/2 to 1 c broken walnut or pecans, swirl and brown, stirring constantly and watching carefully. Pour out onto non-plastic dish; cool and break up. Sprinkle over salad.

Another favorite is a platter of fresh fruit in bite-size pieces. Mix one 6 or 8 oz. container non-fat yogurt (our favorite is peach) with 4 to 8 ounces non-fat Cool Whip. Serve as a heart-healthy dip for the fruit.

A really good melon dish: slice canteloupe and honeydew, or the melons of your choice, into bite-size pieces. I use two melons, and make sure they're ripe. Mix 1/4c canola oil, 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar, and 1 tsp poppy seeds; pour over melon and mix. Top with 1 cup freshly washed berries such as blueberries. Sprinkle with 1/2 chopped almonds; even better, roast the almonds briefly in a 325 degree oven, watching carefully to prevent burning, usually about 5-7 min. They should be a deep brown, smell great, and not taste bitter when cooled.

It seems to me the best salads are the simplest- just a combination of your favorite fruits. Have a great summer!