Fusco's Favorite Salad

1 lb. spring mix or mesclun*
1/2 cup olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
1 /4 cup balsamic vinegar
basil to taste, roughly chopped
1/2 pear, sliced
mozzarella cheese to taste, sliced
walnuts to taste
black pepper to taste

* mesclun [MEHS-kluhn, Fr., KLAHN ]—Found in specialty produce markets and many supermarkets, mesclun (also called salad mix and gourmet salad mix) is simply a potpourri of young, small salad greens. The mix varies depending on the source, but among those greens commonly included are arugula, dandelion, frisee, mizuma, oak leaf, mache, radicchio and sorrel. Choose mesclun with crisp leaves and no sign of wilting. Refrigerate in a plastic bag for up to five days. Wash and blot dry just before using.

Preparation:

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and toss to mix.

Yield: 6 servings