You didn’t hear from us last week because my father (and Maggy and Sharon’s grandfather) died a week ago Friday. We didn’t have time (nor were we particularly motivated) to post last week. Thanks for understanding.
On a happy note, we celebrated Maggy’s thirtieth birthday this past Saturday night. We’ll share some of the recipes and details of that party very soon.
In the meantime we’re featuring a main-course meatless salad–Bowtie, Lentil, and Arugula Salad with Tomatoes and Red Onion. By giving the lentils a little bit of a head start, it’s possible to cook them and the pasta together right in the same pot. Add in a few vegetables and a handful of salad greens, and you’ve got a complete main course. But with Memorial Day weekend coming up, it’ll make a great side dish with that fried chicken or barbecue chicken or ribs that might be on your menu.
- 1 cup dry lentils
- Salt
- 6 ounces (about 2½ cups) uncooked bowtie pasta
- 1 medium-large tomato, cut into small dice
- 1 medium-large carrot, peeled and grated
- ¼ medium red onion (about ½ cup) sliced thin
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cups packed arugula (or other baby lettuces)
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Bring 1½ quarts (6 cups) of water to boil in a large saucepan or small Dutch oven over high heat. Add lentils and a sprinkling of salt; return to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Add pasta and return to a boil; continue to cook until lentils and pasta are just tender, about 10 minutes longer. Drain and turn onto a rimmed baking sheet; cool.
- Meanwhile, dice tomato, grate carrot, slice onion, chop basil and add these ingredients, along with the lentils and pasta to a large bowl. Add oil and a sprinkling of salt and pepper; toss to coat. Drizzle in vinegar; toss to coat again. Adjust seasonings and serve.
I am so sorry to hear about your father’s death. My heart and prayers are with you and your family. My father died last year, he was 88 years young, and it still hurts. May the wonderful memories of your father/grandfather console you and help you through this difficult time.
Please accept my condolences on the death of your father/grandfather. May his memory be a blessing to you.
Pam, So sorry for your loss, keeping your family in thoughts and prayers. Sheila
So sorry for your sadness. Love you guys but family, love, and healing first. We’ll be here when you’re feeling up to it. Take your time…:)
Having just suffered the same loss with both of my parents, my heart goes out to you all. I try not to think of them as being gone…only in a better place now. It’s as if they got bumped up to first class from coach. They’re still with me in my heart, just as I’m sure your father is, too.
I am so sorry for loss, Pam. So sorry. My condolences to you, and your family.
Condolences Pam. Thinking of you as i make bar nuts from you Weight Loss cookbook. I’m making more than enough to share at Wednesday’s women’s meeting. This salad sounds great. Much love to family. KG
Pam, I’m so sorry! I lost my dad several years ago at 92, but he still is often in my thoughts. Treasure your mrmories!
I’m so sorry for your loss.
So sorry for your loss, my prayers will include one for your family
I have had your family in my prayers since Maggy’s Mother’s Day Post. My condolences to all of you.
So very sorry for your loss. Prayers and warm thoughts are with you.
i am so sorry, pam – what a very hard time for you all, and of course your mom, too. my father-in-law is in late stages of alzheimer’s, and it is so painful to witness. very thankful you have your husband and daughters for support.
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You and your family are in my prayers. I just now saw your post.