A Summer Plate

If you are thinking it's way too hot outside to eat, think again!  

For this delicious light meal, fill up your plate with these things and it is sure to please your palate!

:Caprese salad:

tomato slices, topped with a slice of fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, and balsamic vinaigrette. 

notes:  i like newman's own light balsamic vinaigrette.  

buy a large basil plant at trader joes' for $2.99

:Hummus:

pair your hummus with soft pita or herb garlic pita chips. don't forget your kalamata olives.  delicio.

notes:  trader joes pita chips = yum.  also, costco has a killer deal on a ginormous jar of kalamatas.

:Moroccan Orzo with Toasted Almonds:

thanks to my friend stacey who made this & opened my eyes to the great world of orzo.  a-ma-zing.

notes:  recipe below

Recipe for Moroccan Orzo with Toasted Almonds (Thanks to Stacey--credit to Kendra M.)

16 oz. orzo, cooked, cooled, and drained

Combine With:

1 C. green olives, sliced, or halved (not pimento stuffed)

1/3 C. toasted almonds

1 C. raisins or currants  (i liked the currants)

1 C. golden raisins (or sub with dried apricots)

1/2 C. parsley, minced

Lemon Garlic Dressing (recipe below)

2 tsp. cumin

1 tsp. allspice

Salt & Pepper to taste

Lemon Garlic Dressing

Whisk together:

1/4 C. rice vinegar

2 Tbsp. lemon juice

1 Tbsp. shallot, minced

1 Tbsp. garlic, minced

Whisk in:

1 C. olive oil

1/2 Tbsp. Kosher salt

1/2 Tbsp. oregano

1 tsp. pepper

1 tsp. dill