In the past, if you wanted to serve pesto, you had to make it from scratch. Now it is available in plastic containers in the refrigerated section of many markets. Avoid the pesto sold in glass jars on store shelves, as the fresh basil flavor is lost.
Inexpensive veal shanks become a succulent meal in the slow cooker. Even if you aren't an anchovy lover, don't omit the anchovy paste--it adds immeasurably to the flavor. Use the remaining broth mixture in soups and stews.
'When I'm pressed for time, I find this take-along casserole is easy to fix,' writes Pat Waymire, Yellow Springs, Ohio. 'The crouton-topped combination is not only attractive but tasty, too.'
My granddaughters just love this chicken dish. I try to make it every time they come to visit. Lucky for me, it goes together quick as a wink in the microwave.--Miriam Christophel, Battle Creek, Michigan
This Spicy Sesame Noodles with Chopped Peanuts and Thai Basil recipe contains chinese egg noodles, roasted peanuts, sesame oil, peanut oil, sugar and more.
Brigitte Schaller of Flemington, Missouri writes, 'Some people call it dinner hour, but many of us call it rush hour. Slow down the pace with this super-quick mouth-watering meal. The only thing you'll have left over is timet o share with your family at the table.'
Cannellini beans, native to Tuscany, work beautifully in this rustic soup because they hold their shape after simmering in the flavorful broth. Serve with a crusty Italian bread, such as ciabatta, and a salad of bitter greens.
