Spinach & Marinated Mushroom Salad

As a very young girl, one of the greatest lessons I learned was to work hard and to be open to trying as many things as possible. As I got older, I made it a point to never be afraid to say “yes” to a volunteer or professional opportunity—even if I didn’t know what the heck I was doing. I didn’t quite adopt the “fake it until you make it mentality,” but I was always open to being a true student. My eyes, ears and hands were always ready to gather new ideas and skills.

So, when the opportunity to work as a catering assistant became available between my sophomore and junior year of college – I was excited. That experience taught me how to feed the masses, thus why I’m a master at entertaining socially – but, also helped me succeed in my ultimate profession in PR. No event is too large or small!

The recipes I learned from the woman who owned the catering company have stuck with me for life. This spinach salad is one that I often make for company and is always a hit. And, it’s got some healthy, fresh ingredients to boot.  I even made this salad for the guests at my wedding reception. Yes, I was that stupid. I catered my own wedding. In the end, I think it worked out perfectly because it kept me busy, focused and avoiding the “bridezilla syndrome” leading up to the wedding.