One of my all time favorite salads to eat all year long but especially during the summer is Caprese. Caprese (Italian for " salad of Capri") is super simple to make and always pairs nicely with a baguette or fresh bread of just about any sort and a good bottle of wine.

For this variation, I really didn't change much.

I absolutely love heirloom tomatoes and stopped in at my local Trader Joe's (of course) for all of the ingredients I needed for dinner last night and for this salad.




WHAT YOU'LL NEED:
4-6 small to medium sized freshly sliced tomatoes
Fresh mozzarella (the fresher the better)
Fresh basil
Arugula
2 tbs Olive Oil
2 tbs Balsamic Vinegar (optional)
Salt & Pepper (to taste)

I always like to give a protein option (my hubby's favorite) so you could also twist this recipe even more by adding some yummy grilled chicken.


HOW TO MAKE IT ROCK: 
Rinse your arugula and lay onto a platter.
Finely chop or cube tomatoes and mozzarella and layer over the top of the arugula.
Next, chiffonade our basil and layer on top of the previous ingredients.
Dress the salad with your olive oil and vinegar ensuring that you evenly coat
the ingredients.

Enjoy!






I really do love the extra layer of texture, taste and crunch the arugula adds to this popular salad and what I love the most about this is that it's so quick and easy to prepare it's great for last minute summer guests and ANYONE can make it!

I sure hope you all are enjoying your Thursday! Come back tomorrow to take a peek into some of Julie Blanner's favorite spots in her home as we share her space for She's Home.