Tomato and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil Vinaigrette

Tomato and Goat- Cheese Salad with Basil Vinaigrette

(from Everyday Food Magazine # 54 page 132)

1/2 Cup packed fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons white-wine vinegar

coarse salt and ground black pepper

3 ounces fresh goat cheese

3 medium tomatoes, cored and sliced crosswise about 1/4 inch thick

In a blender, combine basil, oil, vinegar, and 1 tablespoon water.  Blend until smooth, 2-3 minutes.  season vinaigrette with salt and pepper.

With a warm knife (wiped clean after each slice) thinly slice cheese.  Arrange tomatoes and goat cheese on a serving plate; drizzle with dressing to taste.