Caprese

Making a good Caprese Salad is really just about getting quality ingredients. I went to Costco a today and got an excellent ball of mozzarella cheese (as well as 8 bottles of wine). On my way home I passed by Whole Foods and purchased fresh tomatoes and fresh basil. I cut up the tomatoes and mozzarella in about a quarter inch slices and laid them on each other. I then took the basil and scrunched it up in my hand (apparently that brings out the flavor, but I'm not so sure it really matters) and then cut it up into little pieces (I believe the French call that chiffonading) and spread it on the tomatoes and mozzarella. I then added a touch of olive oil and some really good balsamic vinegar. That should be enough for flavor, but if you want to add some spice to it, add some salt and pepper and whatever other spice you like, but you probably won't need it because it is so fresh and good anyway. This was the appetizer for the evening. The main course was spicy meatballs with mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus and homemade gravy. Rick, the guy in the picture, did not eat the mashed potatoes. In fact, he has lost over 40 pounds in 3 months. Incredible! He did it by minimizing carbs and constantly eating small meals all day long. Good job Rick!