Head Lettuce

This brilliantly different starter or snack is made from minced beef, lamb, pork, or turkey served in a large lettuce leaf. 

A salad that tastes like a cheeseburger, with lettuce, ground beef, cheese, pickles, ketchup, mustard, and onion. Hamburger bun croutons are a fun addition. 

Not only is this appetizer beautiful as a presentation, but it is a fun appetizer to eat. Guests get to assemble their own, picking and choosing among the condiments and sauces. For the host, everything can be done ahead, even the pork. Marinate and grill the pork early in the day, or even the day before, and refrigerate the chops. Slice the pork just before serving. The sauces can be made and placed in serving bowls several hours ahead; the condiments can be assembled on the platter and then covered and refrigerated ready to serve. 

I am continuously asked to bring this dip for parties and family get-togethers. People gather around the platter until it's gone. Five layers of Mexican-inspired delights are topped by a layer of vegetables, then smothered in cheese and garnished with black olives. The vegetables may be varied according to taste. 

Everyone loves a Cobb salad and this is a great recipe. It makes plain old, shredded iceberg lettuce shine. Bacon, hard boiled eggs, chicken, tomatoes, blue cheese, avocado, green onion and dressing. 

This salad looks and tastes great and can be varied with the seasons. In summer use your favorite type of berry along with the grilled chicken, and in winter use orange segments (or try dried apricots or cranberries. The dressing is a sweet vinaigrette, and complements both the fruit and the poultry.