Mediterranian Salad w/ Basil Infused Olive Oil

I came up with this recipe as I had a lot of these ingredients (randomly) on hand and wanted to use them.  I had also thought of the idea of a basil infused olive oil as well earlier in the week and could not wait to find a way to test that out (which seemed like it would fit perfectly with the ingredients I needed to use).  This salad was both easy and fantastic and I certainly plan on making it again!  This salad can be made quickly, however the olive oil would be best made a little ahead (1-2 hours) if able to let the flavors come together a bit more, so keep that in mind if you plan to make this!

Mediterranian Salad w/ Basil Infused Olive Oil
Makes 2 main course or 4 first course servings
1/4 c. + 1 tsp. olive oil, divided
1/4 c. basil, chopped
1 slice of red onion (all layers), 1/2 in. thick
1/3 c. feta cheese, crumbled
1 tomato, seeded and diced
1/4 c. kalamata olives, chopped
5 oz. spinach or arugula
salt and freshly ground pepper

In a small sauce pan, heat 1/4 c. olive oil over medium heat until heated through (1-2 mins).  Then

add the basil, swirling the saucepan once or twice and cook for about 45 seconds to 1 minute.  Remove from heat and let cool.

In a small skillet, heat the remaining tsp. of olive oil over medium to medium-high heat.  Lightly season the onion slice (keeping rings together in slice) with salt.  Once oil is heated, place in skillet and cook until golden brown (about 5 mins) then flip and cook on other side until golden brown as well (about another 3 mins).  Let cool.  Once cool, cut into large chunks about 3/4-1 inch in size.

Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, toss tomato, feta, kalamata olives and dashes of salt and pepper.  Add the onion once cool and cut, tossing again.  Using a fine mesh strainer, strain the basil-olive oil mixture over top of the tomato mixutre, pressing and scraping with a wooden spoon to release all liquid through.  Toss once more until evenly coated.

Divide the spinach or arugula evenly among plates and top with tomato mixture or toss lettuce together with mixture in a larger bowl.  Serve and enjoy!