Spring greens and local summer vegetables are appearing in farmers' markets. (There were moments this past winter when we wondered if this moment would ever arrive!) But, as tasty as these fresh harvests are on their own, it's the marriage with a great dressing that makes them sparkle and satisfy our taste buds.

IN THIS ISSUE, we demystify what it takes to make a sensational dressing and how easy it is to improvise your own. You'll find a classic White Wine Vinaigrette, a tangy Ginger-Mustard Dressing, and a creamy Little Ranch Dressing - each imparting a different personality while amplifying the goodness of your salad's fresh vegetables.

CLASSES FOR 2014

The response to our recent class schedule was wonderful and you'll be glad to know that we still have room in one of our classes, GRADUATION GOURMET. Don't let the name limit you! While this class is designed to make it easy to elegantly feed a crowd, the recipes are in quantities that are just perfect for your family or a small gathering. However, they all multiply easily and have very little last-minute prep work, making them great for parties and open houses.

We have some FREE MINI-EVENTS, sponsored by JULISKA, that you'll read about below. There are but two weeks left in our JULISKA gift-with-purchase special, so come in and have a look.

We'd also like to remind you that tonight is LADIES' NIGHT OUT from five to nine p.m. It's always a wonderful time in downtown Milford, with most of the stores offering a drink or a bite, or some sort of special. Grab a friend and come on down! We look forward to seeing you!

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FULL! WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30 or MAY 8 - 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Southern Comfort! - $35

Y'all are sure to enjoy this elegant menu fit for a fabulous Kentucky Derby party. Whether you're playing the ponies or just having a dinner party with friends, this Derby-inspired menu should fit the bill. Taught by award-winning Chef Steven Grostick, this is sure to be a favorite! Menu details here!

THURSDAY, MAY 15 - 7:00 - 8:30pm
The Graduation Gourmet
The season is approaching when grad parties abound. Just because you're serving a crowd, doesn't mean it has to be boring! We've got some great recipes that can be prepared in advance, with only minor things to be done at the last minute. Menu here!

FULL! THURSDAY, JUNE 12 - 6:00 - 8:00pm

It's the Berries! - $30

Celebrate Michigan Berries! Every year, Michigan produces lovely crops of all sorts of amazing fruit! We're going to focus on berries in this class. We'd like to arm you with a plethora of beautiful berry recipes so you'll be ready when these summer delicacies ripen. More here!

FULL! THURSDAY, JUNE 19 or JUNE 26

From Good to Grate - $35

Our grill classes have become an annual favorite, and we're sure this one will follow suit! Chef Steven will be teaching this class where we'll feature some great new items from Lodge, made especially for the grill. Menu details here!

Enjoy all of the season's fresh vegetables by dressing them with fabulous flavors!

Happy Cooking!

Kathy Magaluk and all of us at Acorn Farm