I would love to hear from you! Tell me your stories, post a recipe or comment, or feel free to ask Qs on this blog or email me at lunchladycynthia@gmail.com.
I have been doing some deep self exploration lately about life - what do I want from it professionally? what do I want from it personally? what mark do I want to leave on this planet as my legacy? And while I probably have asked these Qs of myself before, I am asking them again. I want to make better decisions for myself. I no longer want to react to situations but rather want to lead with intention and know what it feels like to seek something that is organic to me.
Among work drama, condominium issues, and wanting to be surrounded by loving people (after spending time back in CT), I met an amazing person (who I will call "D") in an elevator one grumpy Monday morning a few weeks ago. Conversation is easy and comfortable and being myself is never compromised. I dont worry about the future or dwell on the past. It just is. And it is lovely :-)
D is not Italian but it is his favorite place to have visited. He has a very european way about him in the way that he approaches life, with candor that is unpretentious and genuine. And, ironically, he has the features and coloring of an Italian even though that is not his ethnicity. This pasta salad is my 'thank you' to the powers that be for introducing me to D as well as a thank you to D, as well.
Italian Stallion Pasta Salad is full of heart healthy grains (see more about the importance of grains here) , antioxidant-rich vegetables, and vinegar to rev your metabolism. You can easily add tuna, for a boost of protein and omega-3s; egg for a boost of protein and biotin; salmon...and well, you get the picture.
Italian Stallion Pasta Salad
- 1 box whole grain pasta (I like Hodgson Mills brand which can be found at Whole Foods, as well as in the natural/organic section of your grocery store)
- 3 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 3 slices red onion, chopped
- ~1/4 c balsaminc vinegar
- salt to taste
- crushed red pepper to taste
- garlic powder to taste
- 6 leaves fresh basil, chopped
- ~1/8 c grated parmesan cheese
- 1.5 T pesto (I like Sauces 'n Love brand which can be found at Whole Foods)
1. Cook pasta according to instructions on box. After it is done cooking, run cold water on the pasta to stop it from cooking and allow it to drain and cool. Transer to a bowl.
2. To the bowl with pasta, add the rest of the ingredients. Mix and enjoy!
