Simple Balsamic Vinaigrette

This is an easy and flavorful vinaigrette. Try it over a simple salad of mixed greens, feta cheese, and olives.

From Emeril Lagasse

~1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
~2 tsp. dark brown sugar
~1 tbs. chopped garlic
~1/2 tsp. salt
~1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper
~3/4 cup olive oil

Place all ingredients in a screw-top jar and shake to combine. I used a mason jar I had leftover from jam-making. Keep refrigerated.

Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad

Last summer, Evan had a watermelon & goat cheese salad at Panera that he raved about.  Here is our take on that salad.

Ingredients:
2 chicken breasts
2 cups watermelon, cubed
salt and pepper
3 tbs. butter
Mixed salad greens (I used an herb mix with dill and cilantro)
4 oz. Goat cheese crumbles
Croutons
Watermelon Vinaigrette (recipe below)

1. Bake chicken breasts in butter, salt, and pepper at 350 for 35-45 minutes.
2. Combine salad greens, chicken, watermelon and goat cheese in a bowl.  Drizzle with vinaigrette and top with croutons.

Watermelon Vinaigrette: (from recipe4living.com)
4 cups watermelon, cubed
1/4 c. red onion, diced small
2 tbs. honey
1/4 c. balsamic vinegar
3/4 c. olive oil
2 tbs. chopped fresh basil
1 tbs. chopped fresh parsley
salt and pepper to taste

1. Combine watermelon, red onion, honey, vinegar, oil, basil, and parsley in a blender. Pulse on and off for about 30 seconds until combined.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste and serve over salad.