Caprese Salad

I didn’t have time to plant a garden this year, but I do have two lonely basil plants out on my deck because we eat soooo much of it the summer. And it’s just too expensive to buy in the store. Oh how I love my basil plants. They are just steps away from my kitchen, super convenient to pick from, and the leaves keep coming back all summer long!We use our basil for all sorts of yummy things, including pesto which I’ll be sharing soon, but another one of our favorite things to eat during the warmer months is Caprese Salad. We probably have it 2 – 3 times each week! It’s simple to throw together and pairs nicely with the loads of grilled food we cook up.

I learned about Caprese when we lived in Chicagoland. I had several Italian friends who would make it all the time. It was then that I learned I didn’t have to wait to go to an Italian restaurant to order it, but I could have it at home anytime we wanted!

Caprese Salad

Ingredients: 

-Tomatoes

-Mozzarella cheese (For those of you who shop at Costco, I’ve found their prices for fresh mozzarella to be the most competitive!)

-Basil leaves

-Olive oil

-Salt & Pepper

-Optional: Balsamic Vinegar – a few drops adds a nice little kick! 

Directions: Slice some tomatoes, top with cheese and basil. Drizzle a bit of olive oil and add salt and pepper to taste.

Sometimes I’ll also use cherry tomatoes and chop up the basil and cheese to serve it in a scoopable form. Either way, it’s delicious! 

Are there any other basil fans out there? If so, what are your favorite things to make with it?

Amber

P.S. For more reflections on parenthood and life, follow us on Facebook (Hun Let’s Run) and on Instagram: @ambermariekuiper and @jakekuiper! We’d also love for you to subscribe to our Hun, Let’s Run Podcast! For more info about joining our fitness community as a customer or coach, please email us at amber@mommysmetime.com!