Cappellini Giadenera

This is one of my favorite meals. I say that about everything, I know, but this really is one of my favorites. It's inspired by the cappellini giadenera dish at Pasta Lovers Trattoria in New York City. Don't be shy about adding other vegetables.

Cappellini Giadenera
cappellini pasta
2 carrots, cut into matchsticks
1/2 red pepper, cut into thin strips
1/2 yellow or orange pepper, cut into thin strips
1 head broccoli, cut the head into chunks and the ends into matchsticks
1 cup snow or sugar snap peas, or fresh green beans
1 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
fresh basil, cut into thin strips
4 cloves garlic, cut thinly
2 cups chicken broth
fresh Parmesan
salt and pepper

I like to cut the carrots, peppers and broccoli ends into matchsticks. You could definitely cut them into chunks, but I like them long and thin for this.

Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, stir fry garlic, carrots and peppers for a few minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper as you go. Add broccoli and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Add chicken broth and cook until veggies are just about done. Add both kinds of peas and tomatoes. Add pasta, basil and fresh Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Cabbage Soup

I already know what you are thinking. Cabbage? Yes, cabbage. Really. It is actually one of my favorite soups and it is perfect for those days when you just want something hearty and warming. This soup is really easy and will only take you about half an hour to make. I always make a large pot so that I can have extra because this soup is even better the second day. Add some bread and you have a meal.

Cabbage Soup
12 cups of beef stock (I add three cubes to my water, add more for a richer flavor)
1 lb lean ground beef
1 onion
garlic
1/2 head of green cabbage
1/4 head of red cabbage
matchstick carrots
1 can of kidney beans
1 large can of diced tomatoes
salt and pepper to taste

Bring beef stock to boil. Add cabbage, carrots, tomatoes, and kidney beans (don't drain the kidney beans, add the entire can).

In a separate pan, brown meat with onions and garlic. When meat is all the way cooked add to vegetables and broth.

Simmer for 10 minutes.