Cherry Tomato Crouton Salad

A zesty salad that take no time to prepare for yourself or a crowd.  Make croutons your self from slices of bread.  Other ingredients are cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil and olive oil vinaigrette. The salad can be served by it’s self or on a bed of greens. Also you can use the cheese that you have on hand.  Quick and easy to make.

• Servings: 2
• Time: 15 minutes
• Difficulty: easy
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Ingredients:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes cut in half
• 1 slice mozzarella cheese
• 2 slices bread cut in cubes
• 2 tablespoons margarine or butter
• 1 small clove garlic crushed
• 2 fresh basil leaves thinly sliced (frozen can be used*)
• 2 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Wash tomatoes and slice in half and place in bowl.  Crumble cheese or cut in pieces and add to tomatoes.

Cut slices of bread into cubes.  Microwave until dry about 1-2 minutes depending on your microwave, checking every 30 seconds.  In a small skillet sauté margarine and garlic for 2 minutes on medium heat.  Toss in bread cubes and toast while stirring. When brown remove from heat.

In a small bowl whisk vinegar and oil together.  Pour over tomatoes and cheese.  Toss with croutons and sprinkle with thinly sliced basil. Serve on a bed of greens or in a bowl.