Fresh Heirloom Tomato Salad w/ Pesto Croutons

Serves 6 ~ Prep Time: 15 Minutes ~ Set Time: 30 Minutes

Ingredients

Croutons

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, coarsley chopped
  • 2 tbsp parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • stale baguette or your choice of bread, cut into ¾ inch cubes

Dressing

  • 2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp. lemon juice
  • salt & pepper

Salad

  • ¼ red onion, cup chopped
  • 4 cups leaf lettuce, torn into pieces
  • 6 medium heirloom tomatoes assorted colors/types, sliced

Directions

Croutons

In a blender or food processor combine the extra virgin olive oil, basil & cheese until a smooth puree.  Pour mixture into a medium bowl.  Add bread cubes; toss to completely coat.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.  Add bread mixture & cook for approx. 5-7 minutes or until crispy brown, turning often.  Set aside to let cool.

Dressing

In a small bowl combine all dressing ingredients & set aside.

Salad

Place chopped onion in a bowl; cover with cold water & soak for 15 minutes; drain well.

Spread leaf lettuce over a serving platter.  Layer tomatoes by alternating the different colors & types on top of lettuce.  Sprinkle with chopped onion; drizzle with dressing & finish by sprinkling croutons on top.

Serve & enjoy!

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