Gratitude in a Bowl

 Round and round

Delayed  Gratification

The invariable mark of wisdom is to
see the miraculous in the common.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

This is the first post in my series of Bowls of Gratitude.  It is hoped I can explore my passion and love for food combined with my desire to see the beauty of life and be grateful for what I am surrounded by. 

I believe in eating what is in season (whenever possible - within whatever means you have).  My youngest daughter and I love pesto!  Perhaps Nonna's great pesto got us hooked.  In an attempt to feed our soul and craving for this delicious dish we make our own pesto.  In an attempt to capture the bounty we freeze batches of freshly made pesto into ice cube trays and then when frozen pop them out and keep them in the freezer for whenever the craving calls.  This method means we can have 'fresh' pesto whenever we want and nothing goes to waste (yeah!).  It also means some of us can have pesto, and those less convinced of the allure of pesto can have something else and nothing goes to waste (double yeah!).  We also love adapting the basic pesto recipe.  Today's pictures represent a batch of pesto made with spinach and almonds, instead of the traditional basil and pine nuts.  We adapt the recipe based on what is in our pantry/refrigerator and what fits are budget (pine nuts can be expensive!).  We have also made pesto with pecans or walnuts, arugula and basil.  Whatever suits your taste or budget.   No rules, just fun and full bellies.  This recipe makes me feel creative and connects me to my family, my families history and the future all at the same time!

I can also make this and when frozen share with those I love....and experience gratitude all over!  Enjoy!

Basic Pesto Recipe:

Handful or more of Spinach, Arugula or Basil

Handful or more of Pine nuts, Walnuts or Pecans

Teaspoon of Garlic (or to taste)

Teaspoon of Salt (or to taste)

Teaspoon of Pepper (or to taste)

Small Handful of Parmigina Cheese

Squeeze of Lemon (if desired)

Olive Oil

Place all ingredients in food processor, pulse a few times.  Add Olive Oil through the spout while processor is running until pesto is smooth (or desired consistency).  Taste.  Add additional seasoning to your liking.  If freezing, spoon into ice cube trays, cover with plastic wratp and place in freezer.  When frozen pop out of tray and place cubes in a freezer bag until ready to use.  Will keep for several months.