Ol' Kentucky Home

No matter where my grandparents may plant themselves, they are always surrounded by the most wonderful of friends. For some odd years now, they have made their home in Kentucky and wherever they may be, visiting them is always like home.

Photo: Karla Johnson

   Nine of us crashed their home to help my grandma celebrate her birthday, a great excuse for a gathering that hasn't happened in a long time. And one of the most beautiful moments that I have ever seen, when their friends showed up for the birthday party they had each brought a dish that composed a dinner signature to Kentucky and signature to the definition of delicious.

   We had our plates full of baked beans, potato salad, a salad (recipe in which I was able to get my hands on and the recipe is below), corn pudding (yum!) and an assortment of meats smoked by my grandpa. For dessert, berry cobbler and amaretto cake. It was a meal that put such a fine finish on day filled with warmth and sun, friends and family.

   But the part that was really beautiful, at the end of the night, my grandma's friends hopped in the kitchen, took over clean-up and the best part, they left the leftovers for gram's houseful to enjoy today! At the first moment available, when heads are turned, I have every intention of grabbing a spoon and popping the lid off of that cobbler..!

Greens and Bean Salad

1 cup olive oil
1/4 cup white vinegar
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
1-1/2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon celery seed
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) cut green beans, drained
8 cups torn lettuce
4 cups torn fresh spinach
2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded Swiss cheese

Place the first six ingredients in a jar; shake well. Pour over green beans and toss to coat. Let stand for 15 minutes. To serve, drain beans, reserving the marinade. Transfer the beans to a serving bowl; add the lettuce, spinach, tomatoes and cheese. Drizzle with marinade and toss to coat.