Strawberry-n-Tomato Bruschetta

Sweet and Savory -- An unexpected combination for Bruschetta

Toss the Topping Ingredients:

1 pint package mixed cherry tomatoes halved
1 pint strawberries quartered
2 cloves garlic minced
6 Tbs freshly sliced basil
4Tbs olive oil
4tsp balsamic vinegar


Slice one baguette of bread into 1/2" thick slices.  Gently brush olive oil on both sides and place on medium hot grill.  Grill until toasted grill marks on both sides. (  This happens very quickly.  Whew!)    OR...you can use a skillet on your stove.  You just won't see the pretty grill marks.

Spoon topping onto hot toasted bread and enjoy!!

Mexican Black Bean Veggie Salad/Relish

Cool ~ Crisp~ and Yummy!!

My idea of a good recipe is one that you can tailor to suit your own palate.   Feel free to omit any item or toss in a few extras... strawberries? corn? fresh peas?

Prepare the following in a pretty serving bowl:

 

-1 can black beans rinsed  I use organic no salt added
-1 can hominy rinsed  or you can use rice
-1 jalapeno pepper seeded and minced
-diced red onion to taste Hubby's bowl has onion.  Mine does not.
-1 portion of cilantro chopped  How much is a portion? 1 loose cup or zero or anywhere in between.  Mine has zero.  Hubby has lots and lots.  Did you know that they (the infamous they) have isolated a gene that determines how a person interprets the taste of cilantro?  Your brain either says yummy or BLEH!!
- 1cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 small red, yellow, or orange sweet pepper diced

Combine the following and pour over the salad:

 

1/8 cup honey
2 Tbs olive oil
1-2 tsp cumin
juice from 1 large juicy lime

Toss and serve as a salad or as a dip for tortilla chips.