Peace art, a good book, and quick delicious brussels sprouts

Hey, it’s been a bit. When I can’t handle the news, I’m on a quest for easy, but not stupid, fiction. My favorite is the 3-book Scholomance series by Naomi Novik and read for audio by the wonderful Anisha Dadia.

The fantasy and magic are clever metaphors for mental health and leftist politics like organizing together and the banality of evil. It’s dark but lovely and funny.

I love this when I’m craving hearty veg but I don’t feel like complexity or waiting.

Mandolin or finely slice your brussels sprouts.

Sauté them VERY briefly, just about a minute (so they’re fully stirred, coated, and starting to wilt, but aren’t fully cooked) in:

• a little oil (more to come soon)

• a melted and just-foamed pat of butter

• salt and pepper

Then, dump them in a bowl and add salad dressing, ideally cold from the fridge to halt the cooking:

• Caesar dressing is delicious

• Or so is a simple red wine vinaigrette

• Or you add a little more oil and a vinegar-y hot sauce

If you feel fancy, add toasted pine nuts, pecorino, herbs, more veg, whatever.

Unrelated: The radishes in the pic were for something else: NYTimes recipe White Beans With Radishes, Miso and Greens — another favorite for elevated but easy fiber. It’s quite flexible for the bean or veg you have on hand.

Let me know what you like and what you’re looking for!

<3

Leah

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