Please pardon my little Mollie Katzen love fest that has been going on for several weeks on this blog. I’ve been cooking my way through her cookbooks and I cannot gush enough. Every single recipe we have made has been phenomenal.

Last night was no exception. We made her lentil soup with a hint of fruit (i.e. dried apricots and balsamic vinegar) — so delicious! We used our fabulous fifteen year old balsamic vinegar from Italy and increased the amount of dried apricots. Yum-o! This morning the leftovers thickened up a bit and it was even better. Thank you, Mollie Katzen.

Inspired by Helen Jane, we have started planning ahead and writing up our weekly menu. Coming up on our list this week: fried cauliflower cakes, spiced pineapple pilaf with spicy beans, savory apple casserole, zucchini-crusted pizza, and noodles with crispy green beans, garlic and chilies. Should be yummy! (I’ll keep you posted!)

All this cooking is keeping me busy and, believe me, that is a good thing.