A Little of This, A Little of That...

This recipe came from my friend, Theodora Elizabeth (who I’ve realized is responsible for about half of what I cook during Lent). Upon her suggestion, I used Great Northern Beans instead of Cannellini beans. It was absolutely fantastic, and I greatly enjoyed the leftovers for lunch today. We served with in pita bread.

Crunchy White Bean Sandwiches
1/2 cup halved cherry/grape tomatoes (I used canned chopped tomatoes)
1/2 small green pepper, choppped
1/2 large celery stalk, chopped
2 scallions (green onions), chopped
1 large garlic clove, minced (ok, I just used my garlic press)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
1 (19 oz) can cannellini (white kidney beans), drained, rinsed, and 2 tablespoons liquid reserves
6 tablespoons red wine vinegar
4 tablespoons sugar
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
3/4 teaspoon prepared yellow mustard
Freshly ground black pepper

Place tomatoes, green pepper, celery, scallions, garlic, parsley, and beans in a serving bowl.
In a small bowl combine the vinegar, sugar, salt, mustard, and 2 tablespoons reserved bean liquid with pepper to taste. Wisk vigorously with a small wisk or a fork until the sugar is dissolved and the liquid is slightly thickened. Pour over the vegetables in the serving bowl and toss gently to combine. Allow to sit at room temp, covered, for about 1 hour to marinate.

Using a regular or slotted spoon, place portions of the bean mixture in pita halves or over toasted bread, not allowing all of the dressing to drain away. Serve immediately. Serves 4 to 6.


A little wide eyed face wrapped around the fresh strawberries we have from the local farm, was surprised to discover that while I think strawberries are pleasant and enjoyable, blueberries are my favorite. We put several bags up in the freezer for him to beg his dad to make smoothies for him.

Two statements I’ve heard recently for discussion:

1) People who drive cars forever are in marriages for the long haul (via Car Talk)
2) The Smith’s How Soon is Now is the 80s Stairway to Heaven (via my radio station). Although, apparently it originates with Sire Records chief Seymour Stein.

My thoughts – Agree with number one, and I can kind of see the point of number two, although I like How Soon is Now, and particularly dislike Stairway to Heaven.

Have a good Tuesday. And, Happy Birthday Sir Paul, one day late. (a side note, thanks again, Gregory!)