Fresh

Thanks to Just Jared for this image

So many celebrities are doing good things and Cindy’s no exception; teaming up with PUR to aid in their Thirsty for Change Campaign. And, she’s doing something else kind for the earth starting at home. Her kids are learning to be environmentally conscious and they remind Cindy to make *better* choices and to take those reusable bags when she goes shopping. I wonder, are they eating green too? I think they probably are. Do you think they follow the 100 mile diet? Maybe.

Thanks to Simply Recipes for this recipe and image

Summer Squash Salad Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 small zucchini or mixed yellow and green summer squash (1 lb total)
• 1/3 cup loosely packed mint leaves
• 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• Pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (1 oz.)
• Grana Padano, Parmesan or Asagio cheese for shavings (optional or use vegan versions)
• Fresh mint sprigs for garnish

Method

1. If you are starting with raw pine nuts, toast them first. Heat a small skillet on medium high heat. Add the pine nuts. Stir gently as the pine nuts start to brown. When slightly browned, remove from heat and let cool.
2. Slice the squash into paper-thin slices using a mandoline or other slicer. Set aside in a bowl.
3. Stack the mint leaves, roll them together lengthwise and slice crosswise to make very thin slivers. Add to squash in bowl.Combine the oil and lemon juice in a small bowl and whisk together. Whisk in the salt and pepper and pour the dressing over the contents of the bowl. Add the pine nuts and toss all together, gently, but thoroughly. Let mixture stand for at least 10 minutes to soften the squash and develop the flavors.
4. Transfer salad to serving dish or to four individual salad plates. Garnish with shavings of cheese made with a vegetable peeler and a few sprigs of fresh mint.

Serves 4.

Posted on July 29th, 2008 by Ruth
Filed under: Vegetables, Vegetarian