An Easy Appetizer.....

Cheesy Tomato and Basil Dip

These little enamel relish bowls are perfect for these individual cheesy appetizers:

Ingredients: Boursin CheeseCherry or grape tomatoesExtra Virgin Olive OilItalian Seasoning Basil Ribbonsfirm, sturdy crackers

Lay a few tomatoes in each bowl, a hefty spoonful of Boursin cheese, drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.

Bake them for 15 minutes @ 350°.

Garnish with fresh basil ribbons!

The next time I used kitchen shears to cut the tomatoes in half and I drizzled Balsamic for more flavor and served with larger crostini:

 

Buy the little relish dishes here: MacKenzie-Childs Courtly Check Relish Dish

Thanks for stopping by, Patti

Mackenzie-Childs Affiliate Link

Graphics by Susan Branch

Baked Tomato, Zucchini and Sausage over Angel Hair

Baked Tomato, Zucchini and Sausage over Angel Hair

One of my favorite summer activities is going to the Regional Market on weekends for fresh veggies!  I grow my own herbs, so I always have them on hand.  This recipe has lots of flavor and I make many varieties of this during the summer.

Baked Tomato, Zucchini and Sausage over Angel Hair

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – used for the vinaigrette base.
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar – provides acidity and sweetness.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – adds a pungent, aromatic flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon oregano – brings a classic Mediterranean herb note.
• Pinch of red pepper flakes – adds a subtle heat.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – enhances all vegetable flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – provides a mild spicy bite.
• 2 medium zucchini or summer squash, halved lengthwise and sliced 1/2-inch thick –
• 3-4 med tomatoes cut into chunks
• 2 sausage links, cooked and sliced into bite size pieces
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan – adds a salty, savory crust.
• 1 tablespoon each chopped parsley and basil ribbons – used for a fresh garnish.

Directions:

1. Prep the oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Mix the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper.
3. Coat the vegetables: Add the zucchini, squash and tomatoes and stir them into the vinaigrette.
4. Arrange for baking: Transfer the vegetables to a square baking dish. Bake: Bake for 20-30 minutes until the zucchini and squash are tender and the tomatoes are wrinkled.
5. Finish and serve: Spoon over angel hair pasta, along with sausage,  and sprinkle the top with Parmesan, chopped parsley and basil ribbons before serving.

Sometimes I make it with cherry or grape tomatoes, occasionally I add onions, mushrooms or broccolini and it is also delish tossed over spaghetti squash!

The perfect serving bowl:

MacKenzie-Childs Courtly Check Abundant Bowl

Thanks for stopping by, Patti

Graphics by Susan Branch

Affiliate link to MacKenzie Childs

Banana-Zucchini Bread

Quick breads are so easy to make - this recipe is a simple one, and it makes 2 loaves!  Be creative and add grated apple, or some crushed pineapple...all it needs is 2 cups of the fruit or vegetable!

CRUMBL "Copy Cat" Sugar Cookies

Olive Garden Croutons....

Have you ever made croutons?

We have salads quite often in the summer, so I often make croutons.

Lil Smokie Deviled Eggs

Here's an easy appetizer, afternoon snack or quick lunch:

An easy appetizer...

Here's a fun and tasty appetizer, easy to prepare and one your guests will love!

Parmesan Chive Butter

Parmesan Chive Butter

Mayo Potatoes

Have you ever made Mayo Potatoes?

Tomatoes....

There is nothing like picking up some fresh, juicy tomatoes at the Farmer's Market.