Arugula and Madjool Date Salad

The world today is complex. With technology changing the way we interact, do business and exchange information, it can be a bit overwhelming sometimes. Granted, it is very exciting but who can live without their smart phone?  Sometimes the simplest things that life has to offer are quite often the most enjoyed. “Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.” ~Confucius

This quote is quite inspirational and makes you think about your approach to how you live each day. Understandably, we all have crazy busy days with work, family, obligations and commitments. Thought I would share a quick list (the list could go on for days) of the simple things in life that I enjoy.

A few favorite simple things:

• The euphoric feeling after a good workout
• The first cup of coffee in the morning
• The smell of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies
• A hug from my hubby
• Doing a good deed for the day
• Smiling
• A whiff of my favorite fragrance
• Reading a "page turner" novel
• Taking an afternoon nap
• Playing a card game
• Laying on the grass looking up at the clouds
• Listening to my favorite play list
• Watching a great movie at home with freshly popped popcorn
• Sleeping in a freshly made bed and the smell of those sheets
• Having a great laugh
• Riding a rollercoaster
• The scent of fresh cut grass
• Spending time with my family
• Cooking and baking
• Watching it rain
• People watching
• Enjoying a favorite glass of wine with cheese
• Driving in my car after it has been washed
• Petting my doggie
• Looking at photos of favorite memories
• Having lunch at a great restaurant with friends
• Watching television with my hubby
• Reading cookbooks
• Going to the farmers market
• Planting flowers
• Entertaining and making people happy

What are the simple things in life that you enjoy?

Arugula and Madjool Date Salad

4 to 5 C. Arugula leaves

10 Madjool Dates, pitted and chopped
½ to ¾ C. Shaved Parmesan Reggiano Cheese

Dijon Vinaigrette

4 T. Olive oil

1 t. Dijon mustard
1 T. Lemon juice
½ t. Salt
8 to 10 grinds fresh ground pepper

Put all of the above ingredients into a plastic container with a lid. Shake until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings to your taste level.

Assemble:

In a large bowl add the Arugula, dates and parmesan reggiano and then drizzle the vinaigrette and toss. Taste along the way to find the right balance of dressing ratio to salad.