It’s that time of year when families are getting together for reunions. I headed to mine in Abbott last weekend. It was good to see my aunts, uncles, and 15 first cousins and their families. Our group filled the little community center on Willie Nelson Rd. Everyone brought a side dish. I made these:
Mediterranean Couscous
16-oz. pkg. couscous
2 c. grape tomatoes, halved
2 c. marinated artichokes, halved
3 zucchini squash, chopped
2 c. bell pepper, chopped
1 purple onion, chopped
1 Tbsp. olive oil
Salt and pepper
1 c. kalamata olives, pits removed and chopped
1/3 c. or a small jar of capers
1/2 c. fresh basil, chopped
1-1/2 c. feta cheese
Cook the couscous per the package’s instruction. Toss the tomatoes, artichokes, squash, bell peppers and onion with olive oil, salt and pepper. Spread on a sheet pan and roast in a 375-degree oven for 15 minutes.
Combined cooled, cooked couscous, cooled roasted vegetables, olive capers and basil in a large bowl.
Dressing:
1/2 c. olive oil
1/3 c. lemon juice
1/3 c. white balsamic vinegar
4 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Combine all the ingredients for the dressing. Pour over the salad in the bowl and toss. Let stand at least an hour. Before serving, stir in feta cheese.
I also brought a salad from the latest FEC monthly magazine.
Frito Corn Salad
1 can corn drained
1/2 purple onion, chopped
1 large bell pepper, chopped
1 c. shredded sharp cheddar cheese,
1 c. mayonnaise
1 bag chili cheese Fritos, smashed
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
That recipe was good, but I recommend adding chopped fresh jalapeno peppers too!
My sister brought her favorite casserole and it is always good.
Creamy Corn Casserole
1 tsp. oil
1/2 c. onion, chopped
1/4 c. butter, softened
6 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 can corn, drained
1 can creamed corn
4 oz. chopped green chilies
1 pkg. French-fried onions, divided
Sauté onions in oil until translucent. In a large bowl, combine butter, cream cheese, corn creamed corn, chilis and onions. Pour into a prepared baking dish. Bake in a 350-degree oven for 15 minutes. Stir in half of the fried onions and sprinkle the remaining fried onions of top. Bake 15 minutes longer.