In my continuing quest to make fruits and vegetables into comfort food, I adapted the meal I order every time I go to Hula Hut. If I were going to the restaurant, in addition to the salad combo of Chopped Salad and Mango Quesadilla, I would have chips and salsa and a margarita. Beyond making the food at home so it’s cheaper, the lack of drink and appetizer makes it healthier too! So here’s my favorite salad this week:

Chopped Salad:

• Green Leaf Lettuce
• Chopped Red Bell Pepper
• Red Onion
• Grated Carrot
• Roasted Corn
• Chunks of Avocado
• Roasted Pistachios
• If you’re not having the Mango Quesadillas (below), you might add some dried cherries for a hint of sweetness.

Dressing: Hula Hut uses a balsamic vinaigrette, but I prefer a combo of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt.

Quesadillas:

Since I was in New Mexico, the land of green chile on everything, I adapted the quesadilla recipe too.

• Flour tortilla
• Spread on neufchatel or cream cheese
• Chunks of mango
• Green chile or poblano peppers

Yum!!