Top 10 Favorite Arkansas Things

I recently joined the Arkansas Women Bloggers group, and a few days ago a fellow blogger challenged us all to answer a set of questions about our experiences in Arkansas. Although I'm something of an expat these days, I remember my home state fondly and happily accept the challenge!

Favorite stretch of road in Arkansas: Hwy 154 from Hwy 7 to Petit Jean State Park

Favorite time of year in Arkansas: Fall in the Ozark Mountains

Favorite place to eat fancy in Arkansas: Ashley's at the Capital Hotel in Little Rock, AR

Favorite place to eat casual in Arkansas: Gadwall's Grill in Sherwood, AR

Favorite place to get away in Arkansas: Mountain View, AR

Favorite place to walk in Arkansas: Little Rock Zoo

Favorite thing that grows in Arkansas: White oak trees

Favorite place to swim in Arkansas: The swimming area at the Blanchard Springs camp ground (the one by the low-water bridge not the one by the bath house)

Favorite colorful expression or place name in Arkansas: Woo Pig Sooie!!

Favorite fair or festival in Arkansas: Arkansas State Fair

 

Caprese Salad

The essence of a caprese salad is pretty simple: mozzarella cheese, tomato, and basil. So what makes this such a delicious side dish? I think it's all about the quality of the ingredients. If your home is anything like our farm, you're enjoying the last of the summer's bounty. We have fawns playing in our yard. The basil is in full bloom, and the tomatoes are starting to pack up for the season. It's the perfect time to savor the richness of summer one last time. Soak it up and let it keep until next year.

Caprese Salad
Cut the tops off of your fresh tomatoes. Slice each tomato vertically approximately 3/4 of the way down. Place fresh, soft mozzarella cheese slices and 1/2 of a fresh basil leaf between each tomato slice. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Lightly drizzle the salads with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Serve chilled.

 Photos by Jenn Ballard