How To: Seasonal Pasta Dishes

Recipe time!  Kinda.  A "How To" is similar to a recipe, minus the exact ingredients and measurements.  Total freedom.

I think most recipes are kind of like general instructions and ideas anyway.  The great thing about cooking is there are really no rules and it's totally how you like it!  Seasoned and advanced cooking junkies usually can recreate, adjust, and play with any recipe.  For other new-comers looking to experiment or just trying to keep it simple, recipes are our lifesavers.  

For myself, I am notorious for looking up recipes, getting an idea, and starting a commotion in my kitchen.  Great successes, more cheese or less cheese, and great disasters have all come about from this.  But, I like to say it taught me to make the most out of ingredients. 

Ever have those days or weeks where you kinda go crazy at the market and don't know what to do with all the veggies you were inspired to buy.  No?  Yes?  If it's yes, this is the recipe for you. If not, it's still the recipe for you because, PASTA. And vegetable that I know you are dying to get rid of in the most delicious manner. 

With simple, but fresh ingredients, everything will sure stand out and then blend magically together.  Trust me.  

What you will need:

• Pasta.  Any kind.  Maybe not lasagna.  That could get weird.
• Garlic.  1 bulb or even garlic scapes!  A late spring, early summer must!
• Yellow Onion.
• Seasonal Vegetables.  My favorites are eggplant, any summer squash, grape tomatoes (every and any color), and leafy greens.  Red Peppers and artichokes are great too.
• CHEESE.  Of course always optional.  I like Parmesan or any other strong flavor.  Less will be more!
• Herbs. Salt. Pepper.  Generous amount of parsley, basil, or oregano.  I always like to add red pepper flakes for a little kick.

What to do:

• Cook pasta, save about 2 tbs of pasta water
• Sauteed the garlic and onion in a generous amount of oil, maybe 2 tbs since that will be your "sauce".  Cover to create moisture, or keep pan open for more crisp!
• Grill or sauteed vegetables.  I honestly like to grill just so I don't have to dirty anymore dishes.  And maybe somebody else can do the work...
• Combine pasta and vegetables into the same pan as the garlic and onion. 
• Add alittle cheese, salt, peppa, and herbs of choice!  

Summer's Not Over!

Yes, people!  We still have one whole month, plus a few more weeks of warm weather!

For myself, I am about to take advantage of what the rest of the season has to offer.  In more ways than one, I think there is something we are all going to miss.  Whether it's the laid-back vibes, vacations, farmers market, or beach days, there is no better feeling than the freedom Summer has to offer.  

With Fall coming, not only is this month the time to take advantage, but also prepare.  More mentally, than anything else.  A post is to come soon filled with Fall tips and treasures, but for now, I want to make sure we are living in-tune with the late Summer Sun as much as possible. 

Here is a list of the goodies, recommendations, and last minute reminders on how to enjoy and prepare for what is to come.

Greens

Drink them.  Eat them.  Blend them.  Whether in juice form for straight nutrients, or smoothies and salads for fiber, we want to take advantage of the greens this month before the colder temperatures kick in.  Even though they aren't as abundant when we started summer (Spring's abundance), we still have great herbs and green veggies to mix in.  Kale, zucchini, okra, cilantro, and parsley are some of my favorites.  If you are lucky enough to get your hands on some detoxifying dandelions, go for it!

Fruits

My all time favorite snack (next to hummus and chips, of course).  Each one full of so many vitamins and minerals, great for both the skin and body.  Eat'em up!  The sun has certainly taken a toll on our skin, so natural prevention and remedies start with food.  Stock up on your tomatoes, peaches, and blueberries as a great and easy way to keep your skin bright and belly full.

Coconut Oil

Your skins best friend during the warmer months.  This is an all-Summer routine, and for some, all year round.  A great anti-bacterial and moisturizer with a light SPF, most people can benefit from this oil, even those with oilier skin.  Out of all the oils, coconut oil is one of the lightest when applied.  Great for skin and hair, keep your skin hydrated and healthy right until Fall hits us with the dryness. 

Healthy Sun

In the winter, Vitamin D levels drop so much, many experience what is called Seasonal Affective Disorder.  This compromises your health, motivation, and over all good-feeling.  Although it is something that can be helped starting in the Fall, for now I want to focus on soaking in all the sun/Vit-D you can.  Whether it is a morning walk or mediation, to a day at the beach or park, enjoy what's left.  Don't be afraid of sweat and don't be afraid of lotion.

Movement

How easy it is to stay active and fit in the Summer!  Warm weather and longer days motivates myself more than I care to admit.  Which is why this month is key to keep it up and maybe go a little harder.  Yes, even a yogi like me wants to kick some ass.  Enjoy the tacos, enjoy the vacation days, and enjoy the work that comes with it.  You want to make sure we go into Fall feeling amazing as possible.  However that may be for yourself, commit to it for a lasting effect.

This is a LIFE-STYLE.  Fit it to your every want and need.