Bruschetta Salad with Sweet Balsamic Dressing

Bruschetta and salad are two of my favorite foods, and I love to enjoy both at once in a delicious bruschetta salad. All of the normal ingredients I put on my bruschetta goes on the salad, and I serve it with garlic bread on the side to scoop up the delicious toppings. It's a perfect way to enjoy two of my favorites. And the best part? The dressing! I make a simple balsamic reduction and combine it with oil, vinegar, honey and dijon, and drizzle it over the salad. It is sweet and satisfying, and really pulls the salad together. This meal is a great way to use up any veggies and cheese you have in the fridge, just pile them on! Don't like the ingredients I used? Swap them out to make your ideal salad, and enjoy!

Bruschetta Salad with Sweet Balsamic Dressing and Garlic Bread
Delicious fresh veggies and garlic bread served together for a yummy meal!
Serves1

Garlic Bread
Ciabatta or French bread
Extra virgin olive oil
Kosher salt
Garlic Clove, peeled and cut in half

Sweet Balsamic Dressing
1/4 c. balsamic vinegar
3 T. extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp. white wine vinegar or lemon juice
1 tsp. honey
1 tsp. dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste

Salad
2 c. romaine or red leaf lettuce
2 tomatoes, chopped
1/4 c. red onion, diced
1/2 small avocado, diced
Handful of feta, goat or blue cheese
1 egg, hard boiled and chopped (optional)
Olives, sliced (optional)

To make garlic bread preheat oven to broil. Slice bread and drizzle each piece with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place under broiler 1-2 minutes until lightly browned on top. Rub with garlic clove immediately to impart garlic flavor. 

To make the dressing simmer balsamic vinegar over medium-high heat until slightly reduced, about 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn't go too far. Pour into a bowl and add vinegar, honey and dijon, and whisk in olive oil until combined. Add salt and pepper and reserve. Whisk again before topping salad.

Combine salad ingredients minus cheese on a large plate. Drizzle with dressing and toss to combine. Top with cheese and extra cracked black pepper. Serve with garlic bread on the side and a big glass of white wine.