Tuesday, August 04, 2009

Surprise!

There are lots of things to dislike about summer in Texas, especially this summer with weeks of temps over 100 and no rain. But I do like tomatoes, and basil. The tomatoes are almost exhausted, and we have had lots of salsa, bruschetta, margarita pizza, BLTs, and insalata caprese.

I've only made pesto once, though, so a few weeks ago I decided to make a big batch. I wanted enough leftover to freeze to use in the winter. It will season our soups and sauces and pizzas, at a time when a taste of summer will be welcome.

"I really need a new food processor bowl!" I moaned to Anthony. The last time I made hummus, I had to jerry-rig the safety, since all the plastic parts had broken off. I pushed it down with a butter knife and had Anna operate the button controls. Still safe but ridiculously laborious. "Uh huh," Anthony answered me distractedly.

I washed and spun all the basil leaves, then went to the pantry to get the Cuisinart. There, gleaming chrome in its place, was a handsome, brand-new model. Anthony had purchased it and placed it there without my notice. It was begging for a test drive!

I filled the bowl with basil leaves, pine nuts, olive oil, and parmeggiano reggiano. I had enough to adorn a pound of pasta and to fill an ice cube tray for later. It was extra satisfying to serve Anthony one of his favorite meals that evening.

8 comments:

Unknown said...

No kidding, that is cool of Anthony! How long did he keep it under wraps in the open before the revelation? Our new al fresco dining area will welcome a cube or two this fall if you guys are able to come visit...

get2eric said...

Mommy likes pesto.
I heard that Lake Travis is 20 ft below norm. We need rain too.

Laura said...

Thoughtful, isn't he?

Anonymous said...

Ever so thoughtful, Anthony! Got to love my son-in-law.
Love, M

Emily said...

Aw, what a great surprise! I, too, wonder how long it was there waiting for you! :-)

Anonymous said...

Wow,I could do with one of those,Jenn. (Anthony I mean) :)
How thoughtful of him.

A.Norma.x

mainlyclearskies said...

What a wonderful husband!

ColeBugsmommy said...

So sweet.