Pasta Primavera

Happy Sunday!

My wonderful husband wanted to go vegetarian for a week.

I wasn't crazy about it but I agreed because I'm such a wonderful wife ;)

Vegetarian isn't really on my radar.

When I plan dinner there is ALWAYS a meat involved.

It's in my blood. 

The way I was raised.

You have a meat and then two sides (which are usually carb/starch heavy)

Anyways, my hubby was sweet enough to print out some recipes for me so how could I say no.

He found a Pasta Primavera recipe by the lovely Giada De Laurentiis.

I will admit I was totally blown away by how much I liked this dish.

I think you should try it.

Soon.

Like tonight.

 Ingredients:
- 3 carrots, peeled and cut into thin strips
- 2 medium zucchini, cut into thin strips
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into thin strips
- 1 red bell pepper,cut into thin strips
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
- 1 pound pasta
- 15 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

2. On a large heavy baking sheet, toss all of the vegetables with the oil, salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Bake until the carrots are tender and the vegetables begin to brown, about 20 minutes (stir after the first 10 minutes).

3. Meanwhile, cook the pasta as directed on the box. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

4. Toss the pasta with the vegetables in a large bowl. Add the tomatoes and the pasta water. Stir. Top with the Parmesan Cheese. Enjoy.

Such a pretty dish!
Light, colorful, and delish!

The Perfect Gift

As I've mentioned before, I have the worlds best sister in law. Sorry to all the other sister in laws but she really is the best. She is awesome for many reasons but today lets talk about her gift giving ability. 

I think gift giving is really stressful. Anyone else?

I'm always searching for that perfect gift that is thoughtful and unique.

When my sister in law gifted me a 3 month subscription to Birchbox shortly after giving birth I thought what a perfect gift! I loved getting the box in the mail every month and couldn't wait to see what was in it.

Birchbox is a great gift for men, women, birthdays, bridal showers, pick me ups, etc... 

Photo from www.birchbox.com

Now we can't forget our four legged friends! Barkbox is the equivelent to Birchbox but for doggies! 

How cute is that? What a perfect gift for someone with a new pup, or a sick pup, or a pup that needs some extra attention because there is a baby in the house now (poor Marley). 

They really do think of everything these days.

Photo from www.barkbox.com

Wait there is more! Citrus Lane is the latest gift from the sister in law. It was Atlas' Easter present. I know, I told you she is awesome. It's a box wit baby items (age appropriate) and mom items. We get our first box in May and we can't wait. Okay Atlas has no clue but I'm sure he will love it when it gets here.

Photo from www.citruslane.com

So the next time you are in need of a gift check these websites out.

 I guarantee the recipient will  love it!