Could You Go Vegetarian?...

I have often sworn to my husband that I could go vegetarian.  Now, keep in mind my "vegetarian" is a little different.  I will eat eggs...and bacon...and a burger if we are at a burger joint.  In fact I will eat most meat out at a restaurant.  I just hate the look, smell, and thought of raw meat so at home I could go without. So basically I would be an "at-home vegetarian" (minus bacon, I can handle cooking that).  Got it?


I do love some veggies though and summer is the best time of year with all the farmers markets and road side stands.  I could eat tomatoes like apples and I really do feel better when I am not weighed down by tons of meat and carbs.  I like everything a little lighter in the summer.  In honor of our first tomato picked from our garden I made this awesome salad.  It is for sure my new go-to summer side.  If you have a cook out I am bringing this so don't you make it!

c/o Martha Stewart

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound country bread, cut into 3/4-inch-thick slices
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 large beefsteak tomatoes, cut into 3/4-inch dice (about 4 cups)
• 1 cucumber, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch dice (about 2 cups)
• 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh basil, torn into bite-size pieces
• 1 tablespoon red-wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Heat grill to medium. Brush bread slices on both sides with 2 tablespoons oil. Grill until lightly charred on both sides, 3 to 4 minutes. Let cool slightly, then cut into large cubes.
2. In a large bowl, toss bread cubes with tomatoes, cucumber, and basil. Drizzle with vinegar and remaining 1/4 cup oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine, and serve.