3, 2, 1 & Karen Eddy Pasta Salad

 I made this pasta salad last summer.  I started this countdown to Valentine's Day at the beginning of last month.  If there is a theme for my life (or at least a dominant character flaw that seems to rear its ugly head often in my life) its procrastination - or the putting off of things and then totally forgetting about them until its a joke that I even decide to finish them out.  This recipe and the Vtine's countdown are going on the list right under the "crafty" Christmas presents I started for mine and Dick's parents in 2009.  Started is the key word in that sentence.  Neither gift was finished - they're still in my closet where I can continue to ignore them. 

With barbeque season almost upon us, I wanted to share this delicious side dish in plenty of time for you to enjoy it at your shindigs.  It is super tasty, and it comes straight from one of my family's favorite ladies in the world, the one and only, Mrs. Karen Eddy.  In fact, my mom doesn't even like bell peppers, but she's the person who recommended this recipe to me.  I'm sure the only reason she gave this salad a chance in the first place is because Karen is the one who made it.  You'll all try it because I've already shared so many lip-smacking treats with you that you know this one is bound to be a hit, too.  Right?  Right.  Enjoy Spring, my friends!

Karen Eddy's Red & Spinach Pasta Salad
From Karen Eddy

Ingredients

8 oz. bowtie pasta, cooked

8 oz. rigatoni pasta, cooked

5 oz. fresh baby spinach

1/2 c. red onion, chopped

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1/2 c. fresh grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 c. balsamic vinaigrette

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a large salad bowl and toss to coat with the vinaigrette.

finishing the movie countdown...

#3 - My Big Fat Greek Wedding.  Because when you're in a relationship with someone, its not just the two of you...its your families, too.  Its sweet & funny, and I love that its not perfect.



#2 - Benny & Joon.  Not every relationship can fit into a cookie-cutter, and that's because we are all individuals.  For better or worse, you're taking the wonderful and crazy parts of the love of your life.  Its a rollercoaster, but its totally worth it when its right.  Plus, Johnny Depp is so cute when he plays a "real" person, and Aiden Quinn is dreamy!





#1 - Australia.  Because who doesn't love an epic romance that includes perfect Nicole Kidman and heavenly Hugh Jackman?!  Its long, but its so worth it!