Easter Recap with a Green Bean Salad and Book Recommendation

"How Martha Saved Her Parents From Green Beans" is a hilarious book by Minnesota children's author and illustrator David La Rochelle. It is geared for the 5-7 age group. If you have any picky eaters in your family, reading this book might just get them on board to love their veggies.  

The storyline is cute. Every child can identify with Martha's not wanting to eat those dreaded veggies on her plate. Martha hates green beans. When some mean green bandits stroll into town, anyone who says, "Eat your green beans," is in big trouble. But when the beans kidnap Martha's parents, Martha is forced to take action. She can think of only one way to stop the villainous veggies from taking over her town, and it’s not pretty...or tasty. 

The illustrations are quite funny, with the green beans all dressed up as various characters. It's a great spring read. 

Cook Notes: 

This book blurb leads me into Easter Recap with a Green Bean Salad shared at a recent brunch.   

    RECAP

The ingredients listed can be increased or decreased depending on how much is needed. I used a store-bought Chipotle Dressing to garnish the salad. A Balsamic Vinaigrette also works well with these ingredients.  

Ingredients: 

• Green beans
• Mixed greens 
• Red onions
• Pine nuts 
• Croutons
• Ciliegine-fresh mozzarella balls
• Avocados, cut into chunks 

Directions:

Cook the green beans al dente. Pour them into a colander with ice cubes and drain again. You want to keep the beans crisp. This step can be done ahead of time.   

Mix all salad ingredients, add dressing, and enjoy!

Cooking Tip:

Avocados brown quickly, so add them right before serving.

Cathy and Bob Iversen hosted a large group for Easter brunch. Cathy's spectacularly colored deviled eggs caught our attention for their color, flavor, and carefully pipped-in filling.  

The Iversens were "Easter Ready," having moved furniture around to accommodate a large gathering and candy treats spread all about.  

For sure, no one went home hungry with a huge array of food. Thanks to Clare and Cis, who ensured we started the afternoon off right, serving mimosas. 

Recipes available on request

Roasted Red Pepper and Bacon Strata

Corn Pudding

                                                        Cheesy Potatoes

Asparagus and Spinach Quiche 

Chocolate Chip Bars

Hot Cross Buns

Hoppin' John Cajun Rice and Black Eyed Pea Dish

Assorted Fresh Fruits

I was intrigued by the pie below. It's a lemon pie made with all lemons, including the rind, pulverized in a blender. 

Fine conversations, good friends, and great food are all you need to ensure a successful Easter gathering. 

Thanks to Cathy and Bob for a wonderful afternoon!