Yummy Wednesday - Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Paninis

"Laughter is brightest, in the place where the food is."

--Irish Proverb

"It's difficult to think anything but pleasant thoughts while eating a homegrown tomato."

--Lewis Grizzard

Here is a new favorite comfort food for a Sunday afternoon: "Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Paninis" found on the WeightWatchers website, and in their "Best Eats" cookbook. These paninis make a great lunch or a wonderful light dinner!

1 1/2 tsp red wine vinegar
1/2 tsp olive oil
1/4 tsp dried oregano
1/8 tsp table salt
1/8 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
4 oz Italian bread, cut into eight 1/2-inch pieces
2 oz whole milk mozzarella cheese, fresh, thinly sliced
1 cup(s) arugula, baby leaves
1 medium plum tomato(es), cut into eight thin slices
4 spray(s) olive oil cooking spray
1 medium garlic clove(s), peeled and cut in half

Preheat outdoor grill (or grill pan or skillet).
In a small cup, stir together vinegar, oil, oregano, salt and pepper until blended.
Brush mixture onto 1 side of each slice of bread.
To make each sandwich, layer 1/4 of cheese over brushed side of bread and then top with 2 tomato slices and 1/4 cup of arugula.
Top with another slice of bread, brushed side down and then coat sandwiches with cooking spray.
Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Grill, lightly pressing with a spatula from time to time, until bread is toasted and cheese melts, about 1 to 2 minutes per side; rub grilled bread with garlic clove.

Yields 2 sandwiches per serving.

Things I am thankful for today:

1. Orange mango smoothie for breakfast - summer is almost here!
2. My baby flowers survived the storm last night!
3. Good parking spots.
4. Did I mention both pastors are back? Hallelujah!
5. Open windows.
6. Time to read.
7. Freshly painted toe nails.
8. Kids trying to catch frogs.
9. A quiet evening.
10. Everything is getting greener by the day!