Basil Tomato Salad Recipe

Ingredients for Basil Tomato Salad

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for breadsticks), 1/4 cup olive oil (for vinaigrette)
• Fresh Lemon Zest
• Fresh Lemon Juice
• Garlic Cloves
• Sugar
• Salt
• Fresh Ground Black Pepper
• Baguette
• 5 oz green leaf lettuce
• Fresh Basil
• Grape Tomatoes
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• Parmesan Cheese

How to Make Basil Tomato Salad

1. **Make the Vinaigrette:** In a small screw-top jar, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon honey, salt, and pepper to taste.
2. **Prepare the Baguette Sticks:** Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
3. **Garlic Oil:** In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 clove minced garlic.
4. **Slice and Brush:** Slice a baguette lengthwise, then brush the cut sides generously with the garlic oil mixture.
5. **Cut and Bake:** Cut the baguette into 3-4 inch sticks. Arrange on a baking sheet and bake for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine 5 oz green leaf lettuce, 1 cup fresh basil leaves, 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes (halved), 1/4 cup pine nuts, and 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (or cheese of your choice).
7. **Dress and Serve:** Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately with the toasted baguette sticks. Optional: Serve with grilled chicken or fish drizzled with extra vinaigrette.