TORTELLONI & VEGETABLE SALAD & NOVEL DIALOGUE

I had no clue that there is a difference between Tortelloni and Tortellini.  Did you?  They are both a type of egg pasta that's traditionally stuffed.  Tortelloni is larger and normally stuffed with ricotta cheese or veggies, while the tortellini is much smaller and stuffed with meat.  

This meal is so simple to make so you won't have to spend a lot of time in the kitchen over a hot stove and it tastes fantastic.

INGREDIENTS

3 Medium Zucchini, cut into bite size pieces or lengthwise
1 Package of Mini Bell Peppers (Seeded)  Or just cut up one Bell Pepper
Salt & Pepper to Taste
1 Package Frozen  Cheese & Spinach Tortelloni
1/2 Cup Basil (Fresh or from a jar)

LEMON-SHALLOT VINAIGRETTE

1/2 Cup Lemon Juice
1 Shallot - Minced
1/4 Cup Parsley - Freshly chopped or from a jar
1 Tbs. Honey
1 Tbs Dijon Mustard
Salt & Pepper

DIRECTIONS

Spray non-stick butter, canola oil or coconut oil in a pan, then cook the  zucchini and bell peppers for about 3 minutes on medium high, then remove from the pan, allowing them to stand about 5 minutes.


Prepare your tortelloni according to the package directions.  Toss together the cooked veggies and warm tortelloni and lemon vinaigrette. Add salt & pepper to taste.  If you like a little spice, add cayenne or red pepper flakes.  Sprinkle with basil right before serving.

NOVEL DIALOGUE
Have you ever read a book and something about the conversation just didn't click?  The blurb was totally badass, the scenery was wonderful, the plot had this insane energy, and the characters were all drop dead delectable; yet the discussions throughout the pages mysteriously fell flat and had you scratching your head in dismay.

Lately, two of my favorite authors have swerved from the norm by subjecting us to some lightweight and unbelievable talks that don't seem to fit in with the story that's been written, and I'm disappointed. I've struggled to to get through a few chapters because I admire the author so much, before the realizing it's a DNF.  When this happens, I wonder if another writer is pinch hitting while the real author is on vacation, or an alien has somehow taken over when we weren't looking.

Has this happened to you?  Do you finish the book anyway or does it head to the pile never to be seen again?

JUST ONE MORE THING

"Summer's lease hath all too short a date."
-William Shakespeare