Broccoli Ramen Salad

In my opinion this is the best way to eat broccoli. I like broccoli but it is not in my top five of veggie love. But when put raw in this salad, cut in bite-sized morsels, broccoli is crunchy goodness. This salad has fantastic flavor and texture and is sure to please most. A gal I used to know would bring this to every potluck, shower, or party and it was always the first dish to go with many recipe requests, which she generously shared with all. I made it for our very first potluck at our new church with the same overwhelming response. I even received this thank you letter in the mail from one of the church elders:

"...You may be interested to know that it was an item you brought to our fellowship dinner, week before last that stirred inquiries. It was the delicious salad you brought that was so good that it was all gone in almost no time!..."

Wow! How sweet was that? The letter was even typed on a typewriter. Now that was cool. I keep that letter from our precious elder (82 years old and still going strong) tucked amongst my cookbooks where I hide many of my treasures and mementos. Make this salad for your next party so that you will receive a hand typed letter of appreciation.

Broccoli Ramen Salad
Sauté until golden:
1 cup walnuts or pecans
one package of ramen noodles broken up
4 tablespoons of butter
Drain on a paper towel.

For dressing, mix:
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup rice vinegar
3 T. soy sauce
pinch salt
pinch pepper

Toss:
Romaine lettuce, about 3 heads washed and torn
broccoli florets, about 2 bunches washed and chopped
ramen mixture
dressing

Note- Ramen mixture and dressing can be made ahead. Do not toss until ready to serve. Recipe is for a BIG salad. If you feel that the entire salad will not be eaten in one sitting then do not toss salad elements together serve separate and let everyone create their own. This way the greens will stay fresh and not get soggy.