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. 

Hooray... It's Time For A Picnic!

I am so excited for sunny summer days. I plan to be outdoors as much as possible. I'm looking forward to bike rides, hikes, swimming and picnics in the park!  This summer, don't forget to pack the perfect minty sweet fruit salad. I found this on Foodnetwork.com, tried it and loved it! It was such a big hit! I've tried many fruit salads in my time and this is one to remember. I think it's a combination of the honey, mint and lime zest that makes it stand out from the rest. So, I thought I'd share! Try it. It's easy and oh so tasty!

Salad:

• 1/3 cantaloupe, cut into 3/4-inch chunks (about 2 cups)
• 1 (16 ounce) container strawberries, quartered (about 3 cups)
• 5 medium kiwis, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch chunks (about 2 1/2 cups)

Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons honey
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint leaves

Directions:

Place all of the fruit into a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk the honey, lime juice, zest, and mint. Right before serving, pour the dressing over the fruit and toss gently to combine.