Fresh Berries are still filling the stores with fragrance and variety. They are the inspiration behind this colorful and easy salad with a pop of citrus flavor. If you ‘d like to make it a meal, use some of the orange dressing to marinate a couple of chicken breasts. Make a double recipe of the dressing and use some to marinate two chicken breasts for an hour. Grill or roast the chicken breasts until done, (when they register 165F on an instant read thermometer). Slice and serve topping the salad. Dinner’s done!

If you have it in your garden in August, chances are you’re harvesting a lot! Good news – here’s another way to use it – basil adds spicy, peppery goodness to this salad. Basil is also our superstar herb of the week because of the anti-inflammatory and antianxiety properties. The eugenol component of basil’s volatile oils has been the subject of extensive study, since this substance can block the activity of an enzyme in the body called cyclooxygenase (COX). Many non-steroidal over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS), including aspirin and ibuprofen, as well as the commonly used medicine acetaminophen, work by inhibiting this same enzyme. But isn’t it awesome when you can get health benefits in a food you can eat? That’s why we love food and its power! Also, Holy basil (a specific type of basil) has antianxiety effects because it contains phytochemicals that studies suggest may lower cortisol, a hormone secreted when you’re tense.

Try to add 2 or 3 leaves (per serving) to your tea while its steeping. Lounge chair optional……. Enjoy the salad!

Fresh Berry Salad with Orange Dressing

• 1 TB Orange Zest
• 2 TB Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
• 2 Tsp Dijon Mustard
• 2 TB Apple Cider Vinegar
• 1/3 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• ½ Tsp Sea Salt and ¼ Tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
• 4 – 6 Cups Fresh Seasonal Berries
• 1 Pkg Spring Greens
• 6 Basil Leaves, coarsely torn
• 4 OZ Crumbled Goat Cheese
• ¼ Cup Toasted Almonds, Sliced or Slivered

Shake the orange zest, juice, mustard, vinegar, oil and salt and pepper together in a jar. Toss the berries with the Spring Greens and basil and top with the goat cheese. Drizzle with the orange dressing.