Tastes of Summer

It seems like every summer, there's some salad or side dish that I fall in love with because it just tastes like summer to me.  This year, it's a spinach salad with watermelon, chicken, bleu cheese and balsamic vinegar.  I know that sounds a little weird but look at that photo - don't you want to eat that crunchy, sweet, salty goodness right now?  It's a fantastic combination and an easy supper to put on the table.  I bought grilled chicken strips from Trader Joe's the last time I made it but it also works with rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled or cooked chicken of any sort.  This is delicious . . . and summer is almost over so you should make it soon!

Balsamic Watermelon Chicken Salad (serves 2)
adapted from Pinch of Yum

1 cup balsamic vinegar
1-2 cups cooked chicken
4 cups baby spinach (or other baby salad greens)
1 cup watermelon (seedless, cut in small cubes)
1/2 cup bleu cheese crumbles
1/4 c. sliced almonds
olive oil

Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and bring to a boil.  Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the balsamic vinegar is significantly reduced and becoming syrupy.

Divide the spinach onto two plates and top with the chicken and watermelon.  Sprinkle with bleu cheese and almonds.  Drizzle the balsamic reduction to taste.  Top with a little olive oil, salt and pepper, also to taste.