Finding Life's "Silver Linings" or "the medicine" for the soul

There is nothing (yes, I said, NOTHING) more delicious that using that last batch of Fresh Basil and Zucchini & Squash from your garden. (TIP: make sure you are using your basil as much as possible as then it yields MORE & MORE…use it or lose it…once it flowers you are done.) It’s the dog days of summer….& this brings everything to an indulgent climax. PLUS….fresh herbs are super healthy, for the health benefits + other recipes w/ fresh herbs, go to: https://lifesapothecary.blog/2024/06/15/using-fresh-herbs-the-trifecta-food-tastes-better-looks-better-and-is-better-for-you/

This first recipe used Fresh Pasta (yes we make our own), but you can use the store bought pasta although I do suggest maybe even buying fresh from a Italian specialty store like Carfagna’s https://carfagnas.com/ , Eataly or your local favorite.

The second recipe is super quick and has a delightful fresh citrus-basil taste!

Spaghetti Alla Nerano

**Recipe Source: https://www.platingsandpairings.com/

Did I mention this recipe is quick? Especially if you buy the pasta…prep time is 10 minutes, cook time 20 minutes for a total of 30 minutes or less!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 quart sunflower oil (or vegetable oil–2 cups)
• 4-6 medium zucchinis (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup chopped fresh basil
• Kosher salt to taste
• 2 tbsps Extra Virgin Olive Oil (plus more for drizzling)
• 1 lb spaghetti
• 2 cups grated parmesan cheese (I like to use a fresh block & grate it right over the pasta before serving)

Directions:

1. Add sunflower oil to large pan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the zucchini in the oil until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes. Remove w/ a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels.
3. Combine the fried zucchini with basil and salt to taste & drizzle w/ olive oil.
4. Cook the pasta until al dente and reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining
5. Add the cooked pasta to a large skillet over medium low heat. Toss w/ the cooked zucchini, adding the pasta water, until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
6. Add the parmesan and continue tossing until the pasta is coated. Season w/ salt to taste.
7. Serve after drizzling w/ olive oil and fresh grated parmesan.

The FRESH Basil makes this dish…it is FRESH & tasty, tasty!!!

Zucchini & Squash Salad!! Oh My!

Recipe Source: https://www.marthastewart.com/

This colorful salad has the freshest summer citrus-basil taste…it is fresh and light and honestly, is nothing less than perfect.

Honestly this one is super-quick too! The only timely part is letting the squash & zucchini sit for 30 minutes to release extra liquids. BUT you can use this time to make the dressing & have this whipped up super-quick!

Ingredients:

• 2 zucchini thinly sliced
• 2 small yellow squash thinly sliced
• Kosher salt & freshly ground pepper
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsps. fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp Dijon Mustard
• 1/2 tsp honey
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped or torn if large)

Directions:

1. Salt Zucchini & Squash Slices: place in colander & salt generously. Let sit for 30 minutes. Rinse & pat dry & then transfer to a large bowl.
2. Make Dressing: whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard and honey
3. Add Dressing, Pine Nuts, Cheese & Basil to squash: Toss to coat. Season w/ salt & pepper.
4. Serve Immediately: or let stand at room temperature for up to 2 hours.

Did I mention that BOTH of these recipes are super healthy!! I talk about the health benefits of Fresh Basil here: https://lifesapothecary.blog/2024/06/15/using-fresh-herbs-the-trifecta-food-tastes-better-looks-better-and-is-better-for-you/

BUT, let’s talk about the health benefits of Squash & Zucchini!!

Squash–has many vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as potassium, magnesium, fiber, folate, riboflavin, and phosphorus. It’s also rich in manganese, which helps strengthen bones and the body’s ability to process fats and carbohydrates.

Zucchini–has many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that health benefits, including: heart health, digestion, bone health, diabetes, eye health, cancer prevention, and asthma.

What are you favorite end of summer healthy treats???