I understand the healthy eating issues ~ we are now part of that group not by choice~ I suggest you make the basic part of the salad, and put out individual "fixings" to add, like the cheeses ( blue cheese, shredded Parmesan), bacon bits, black olives, some hot peppers, whatever you have on hand that would make a pretty presentation. Also, put out a lighter healthier Italian dressing, and a creamier version dressing that will compliment the Pizza. A healthy choice will be appreciated if there is a health concern.

I would make a simple honey mustard vinaigrette. skip the granulated garlic and use fresh in the dressing. I like some grated parmesan cheese in the dressing to buffer the acid, doesn't take much and they will never know it's there.
Basic vinaigrette
1T Dijon mustard
1 T honey or brown sugarâ¦or splenda ( not as good as honey)
2 cloves of garlic crushed
1/3 cup rice vinegarâ¦or 1 /4 cup cider vinegar and 2 T balsamic
1 tsp crushed dried oreganoâ¦or 2 tsps fresh.
1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Whisk all but the oil and slowly add the oil while whisking
I like to add about a teaspoon of grated parmesan cheese to mellow it out.

I'd do a simple Italian dressing, EVOO, reg wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, similar to Linda's but I'd leave out the sweet stuff and the mustard, and keep it Italian. Croutons and grated parmesan on top.

Oops! Well, the salad is all mixed together, so I guess I didn't leave them any choices. I don't have any black olives, and am pretty sure they won't eat the bacon bits, although I am offering Iowa's favorite sausage to put on the pizza. I will do the Italian and the Honey Mustard just to cover my bases. Thank You!

I'd like a nice balsamic vinaigrette. Finely mince a shallot and stir into a teaspoon or two of Dijon mustard - season with salt & pepper. Add about 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar, whisk well. Continue whisking as you pour in extra virgin olive oil (add to taste - you'll probably use 1/2 to 2/3 cup). It's my go-to salad dressing these days.

Lori

No matter how dedicated folks might be to "healthy eating," if they accept a dinner invitation they must be willing to stretch the point at least far enough for courtesy. To be a considerate hostess without tying yourself into knots, I'd serve whatever dressing you like on the side, and place cruets of vinegar and oil on the table. They can then choose the dressing or mix their own according to how strongly they feel about it.

Heck, I put vinegar and oil on the table when I've guests anyway, just in case they don't like my dressing!

I ran out of time to make two dressings, so I went with a home-made creamy Italian, which tasted great. I realized when we sat down my meal looked very simple, but I think that was fine. (It was Pizza after all.) At least I didn't look like I was trying too hard, and what we had was what I would consider as whole foods.

The CF came through for me again with the Lemon Custard Cakes. When my guests dug into those, they actually seemed delighted with what they found!

Here's the recipe I used for the dressing, which I highly recommend.

Creamy Italian Dressing

⢠1/2 cup mayonnaise
⢠2 tablespoons milk
⢠2 tablespoons cider vinegar
⢠1 teaspoon oregano
⢠1 teaspoon basil
⢠1/2 teaspoon sugar
⢠1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
⢠1/4 teaspoon salt
⢠1/4 teaspoon pepper
⢠4 T. Parmesan cheese

In jar with tight fitting lid; combine all ingredients. Shake well.

Claire, simple foods, well prepared from quality ingredients beat the heck out of foo-foo,over sauced, over spiced, (and over difficult) menus most of the time. When I was younger, it took me a while to clue in to the fact that when I had company, they'd probably like to spend a bit of time with me, even if it meant they didn't get soup to nuts courses.

Good Pizza, good salad, good wine and a yummy dessert...works all the way!

Rachelellen, Thanks for reminding me of that. I try to live by the KISS principle, but when you're having someone over for the first time, there's always a small element of fear! I appreciate your support of the simple rules of entertaining, and actually decided this time not to stress out over this ''event''. As it turned out, it was one of the most fun evenings I've had in a while, which I'm certain had to do with my more relaxed state!