Visiting the Parents: Lunch

Yes, I know. I've been very bad at updating this little blog of mine. Easter was how many months ago? 

I am up in the North Bay visiting my parents and family for the weekend. A quick lunch was in order, and here's what we cooked up.

Mixed Berry Salad

Spinach with lemon garlic vinaigrette

Grilled cheese with cheddar and Reggiano

I am sure you were expecting something a bit more gourmet, but frankly there is hardly a better lunch out there.

The berries were simple: sliced strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and mango (for fun). Toss them together and walk away for five minutes.

Here's the vinaigrette recipe:

1/4 cup lemon juice

2 cloves garlic, halved

1 tsp. dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 tsp. each fresh thyme and rosemary

1/2 cup good extra virgin olive oil

Mix the first five ingredients together in a bowl or mason jar. While whisking continuously, add olive oil. If you're using a mason jar, add half the oil, shake vigorously, then add the second half and repeat.

When you're plating your salad, toss a few pinches of fresh herbs (or in this case a mixture of cayenne pepper, thyme, and paprika) on top along with fresh cracked pepper.

The grilled cheese was a simple mix of sliced cheddar and grated Reggiano. I grill my sandwiches on cast iron (the best) to a dark brown.

Enjoy! More updates to come, I promise.