Fresh Basil

I was watering the plants the other morning (my parents were away on vacation) and noticed the crisp aroma of the basil plant in the backyard.  The plant was towering over all of the others and was overflowing with vibrant green leaves.  I crouched down near the plant and took a sharp inhale and took in the wonderful smell of the fresh basil.  Sheer bliss. With a few large, ripe, tomatoes in the fridge, I knew exactly what I wanted to make for dinner that night.

I found this easy recipe on the Food Network, courtesy of Ina Garden, but added some sliced mushrooms, a mix of dried Italian herbs, and fresh basil.  Not only did I have this for dinner that night, but it also served its purpose for my lunch for the rest of the week!