My New Love This Summer... Basil!

Actually, I've loved it for some time now. However, this summer I decided to grow my own. I don't have a green thumb or know anything about gardens, plants or growing herbs... but this is the summer to try new things. Sure, I am taking baby steps but by the end of the summer should be a pro! Well, we'll see. For now, just enjoying seeing my seeds turn in to little green sprouts. I can't wait to use my own home grown herbs in some of my summer recipes.

Here's one of my picnic crowd pleasers and favorites... Caprese Salad!

• 1 pound fresh mozzarella
• 3/4 to 1 teaspoon fine sea salt or fleur de sel
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup packed basil leaves, torn or cut into thin strips
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil (optional: 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar)
  Directions
• Slice the tomatoes and cheese into 1/4-inch thick slices. Arrange the salad on a serving platter or individual plates in an alternating pattern, with two to three slices of tomato for every piece of cheese. Season with the salt and pepper to taste. Scatter the basil leaves over the top and drizzle with the oil. Serve at room temperature.