Tomato, Haloumi, Pesto Stack

04 Jul Tomato, Haloumi, Pesto Stack

Basil is a fantastic herb that pairs well with many farm fresh vegetables, especially tomatoes.  Using this fresh herb to create a simple pesto is a flavorful and easy way to impress guests.  Pesto is versatile and can be used in a variety of ways- on pasta, pizza, grilled veggies, as a spread on sandwiches or wraps, or drizzled on this delicious stack using fresh haloumi cheese, grilled and layered with vine ripened tomatoes!

Tomato, Haloumi, Pesto Stack

*Thinly slice haloumi cheese (Ironweed, from Valley Milkhouse).  Fry the cheese on low heat in oil.  Once one side is browned, flip and brown the other side.

*Slice 1 or 2 early girl tomatoes.

*Assemble stack by placing tomato slice sprinkled with a little sea salt, then fried cheese.  Repeat 2-3 more times to create a nice stack.

*Drizzle pesto on top (recipe below).  Enjoy!

Simple Basil Pesto

Ingredients:
2 cups basil leaves, packed
¼ cup pine nuts
¼ cup parmesan cheese
1-2 cloves garlic
½ cup olive oil
¼ tsp sea salt
½ tsp lemon juice

• Pulse pine nuts, cheese, garlic, and half of the oil in food processor.
• Add basil leaves and pulse again.
• Add remaining oil, sea salt, and lemon juice. Pulse until all ingredients are fully combined.  You may need to scrape down the sides and pulse again.
• Store pesto in airtight container in the fridge or freeze to preserve.
• Enjoy with pasta. Toss on roasted veggies.   Add to eggs.  Use on sandwiches, wraps, or pizzas.  Get creative!

Recipe and photos by Stephanie Borzio.  Stephanie is a mom of three active boys and is an autoimmune warrior.  After battling her own health for several years, Stephanie found healing through food and lifestyle changes, including joining Blooming Glen Farm CSA of which she is a long time member.  She is a Board Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach who is passionate about sharing healthy living tips and real food recipes.  Instagram and Facebook: Tru You Essentials; Website: www.truyouessentials.com