Michael Smith's Salsa Salad

Last week it was Ricardo, a French Canadian, all over my blog and this week Michael Smith from the Food Network channel as well. Chef Michael Smith is the host of Chef at Home, Chef at Large and The Inn Chef which can be seen in more than 25 countries. He is an award-winning cookbook author, chef, and newspaper columnist. Smith says, "His favorite role by far is Dad, at home on Prince Edward Island, Canada with his partner Rachel and their son Gabriel." You can find out more about Michael Smith here .

I remember vividly seeing this recipe on one of his shows. The ingredients are simple and the dressing is simply just salsa which has everything you need for a delicious dressing already in one neat little package. I always have salsa in the fridge from a local company that produces guacamole, salsa and multi coloured tortilla chips...perfect for this salad!!

On another note, and in keeping with the theme, I have been awarded the Nice Matters award by my last months Taste & Create partner Ben of What's Cooking . Right back at you Ben!!! Ben has been cooking up Mexican dishes with his family for years. I love all his authentic dishes. I still haven't made the sopas yet Ben :(

I have also been awarded the "E" for Excellent award by Judy of No Fear Entertaining . Judy is a young mom living in Florida and lovingly cooking up a storm for her family and friends. I also believe she is a former Canadian...correct me if I am wrong Judy...Canada ROCKS!!!

I humbly accept all of these accolades. Blogging is truly about the friendships we create and the new things we learn each and every day. Both of these awards have been making the rounds, so, I have recieved both recently and passed them on to as many bloggers as I could think of in a short period of time. This time around I am going to hold them near and dear to my heart!!! Thank you Ben and Judy for your thoughtfulness, I really do appreciate it!!

**Salsa Salad**

1 head of romaine lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
1 tomato, chopped
2 avocados, peeled, pit removed and sliced
1 red onion, sliced thinly
1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, grated
1/2 cup of bottled salsa
1 cup of fresh cilantro leaves
Salt and pepper
4 x flour tortillas, sliced thinly

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Place tortillas on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Allow to cool.
Put lettuce, tomato, avocados, onion, cheese, salsa, and cilantro in a large salad bowl. Season with salt and pepper and toss with the salsa. Top with crispy tortillas.