Summer's Bounty

The best thing about summer is the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. It has been quite the rainy summer in Texas but the basil in my yard has not complained. It is large and green and beautiful. The dragonflies even love it! I am always searching for new recipes in which to use my fresh basil and this one doesn't disappoint.




Spinach Caprese Salad

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup baby spinach leaves
• 1 large tomato, sliced 3/4 inch thick
• 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

DIRECTIONS

1. Spread the spinach out on a serving plate. Place the slices of tomato on the bed of spinach. Top each slice of tomato with a slice of fresh mozzarella. Sprinkle the basil over the salad and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.