It’s time for another recipe! First, the recipe. Then, me blathering onward about my occasionally questionable culinary capabilities and the memories this particular side dish holds for me.

The Ingredients

4 tablespoons good olive oil

3 tablespoons balsamic reduction

5cloves garlic, minced

20 fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped

Pinch of salt, pepper, and sugar

3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

2 large cucumbers, seeded and chopped

16 ounces fresh mozzarella cut into chunks or mozzarella pearls

The Way of Preparing

Whisk together the oil, vinegar reduction, garlic, and seasonings. Adjust to taste.

In a large bowl, mix together the tomatoes, cucumber, mozzarella, and basil leaves. Toss the vegetables in the vinaigrette mix. Let sit at least an hour for flavors to meld.

Memories

My wife introduced me to this amazing mix of flavors and it’s one of the things that’s my favorite to make and eat!

I could literally have this for breakfast or lunch every day for a month and not get burnt out on it. It is a special treat that I absolutely adore. Thanks to my Darling Wife for this recipe!

Did you try it? What did you think?