Bruchetta - The Summertime Treat

Ahh bruchetta.... a juicy, crunchy, flavorful blend of summertime goodness. Great lunch, dinner, snack or appetizer.

Prep time: 30 minutes

Yield 14 servings

1 garlic clove, peeled and halved

14 slices French bread (3/4 inch thick)

4 medium tomatoes, seeded and diced

1/4 cup chopped red onion

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp minced fresh basil

1/4 tsp salt

1/8 tsp pepper

14 fresh basil leaves

Rub cut side of garlic over one side of each slice of bread. Place bread, garlic, side down, on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 5 minutes on each side or until lightly browned. In a bowl, combine the tomatoes, onion, oil, minced basil, salt and pepper; spoon about 2 tbsp onto each piece of toast. Top each with a basil leaf.

Yields 14 servings

Cucumber and Tomato Salad

Family Favorite!! This is dish is usually gone the same day we make it! Great as an appetizer, side or if you just want to have it for lunch. Perfect for those hot summer days.

Ingredients:
2 cucumbers
1 large tomato
1 small green pepper
1 small purple onion
1/3 cup veggie oil
3 Tbsp sugar
3 Tbsp red wine vinegar
3/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper

Directions:
Chop cucumber, tomato, bell pepper and onion. Whisk together oil and next 4 ingredients in large bowl until sugar dissolves. Add cucumber mixture. Toss together. Cover and chill 3 hours.

Yields: 2 cups

Spiced Mocha Mix

Something that I tried off on a whim. Turns out it is really good, and not to mention, really easy to make! Even my sister liked it and she doesn't even drink coffee!! Tasty warm drink that works great as an alternative to hot chocolate for coffee drinkers and non coffee drinkers alike!! Would also work as a simple, great holiday gift for those on a tight budget.

Spiced Mocha Mix
1 cup sugar
3/4 instant nonfat dry milk powder
2/3 cup cocoa
1/2 cup powdered nondairy coffee creamer
1/3 cup instant coffee granules
1/2 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
Marshmallows (optional)

Combine first 8 ingredients. Store in airtight container. To serve, spoon 3 heaping tbsp into a mug. Add 1 cup hot milk, stirring until dissolved.Top with marshmallows, if desired.