Spice!

While growing up, my parents taught me that community involvement is very important. Both my father and my mother were involved in activities that took them away from home to meetings and events that both contributed to the greater good and gave them something other than children and work to think about. This lesson was well-learned and I am now away from home at least 2 to 3 nights a week. Luckily (if this can be considered luck), my husband is not so civic-minded so he is able to stay home with the kids while I am off gallivanting. This involvement, combined with my recent return to full time employment, means that my favorite meals have not been recently prepared. However, the below is something I try to make every couple of months!

My Lasagna

Cook one box of lasagna noodles. After they are done, dry them slightly on cooling racks. While the noodles are cooking, combine 1 container of ricotta cheese with one egg, garlic and oregano. Also, brown 1/2 pound Italian sausage and 1/2 pound hamburger, one onion and garlic to taste. Add a red sauce to taste. I usually make my sauce, but a prepared one will work just fine.

Smear some red sauce without the meat in a 9x13 pan. Put three noodles on the bottom. Spread ricotta mixture on noodles. Then, pour meat sauce on top. Add mozzarella, provolone and parmesean cheeses. Repeat until the top. The last layer should be noodles covered with meatless sauce.

Cover and bake at 350 degrees for about 40 minutes. Take the cover off and cook for another 10 to 15 minutes. You should let it sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. If possible, cook the day before and let cool overnight. Then, re-heat in the oven until hot all the way through. Lasagna is always better the next day.

I was planning on including my spicy pepperoni recipe, but have run out of time. I promise to give it to you very soon. (Sadly, this was supposed to tie my theme together - community involvement is the "spice of life."