Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Health of the Nation

Did you hear Obama's speech on healthcare? STOP BEING SCARED PEOPLE! We need healthcare and healthcare reform.

Scar McDyess: What do you think about Medpac? Here's the list of members.

While I would love to see the single-payer system that Scar discussed in early posts, that kind of change would be too much. So, I hope the plan they are trying to push through works.

Everyone seems to be concerned about sacrifices that might have to be made. Is this a real concern or can they simply reduce inefficiences to pay for the plan?

In other news, I'm going back to grad school! Most of you already know this news but some may not. I'll be moving to LA to pursue a master's in Urban Planning at USC.

Also, my garden is flourishing. Photo on left (basil, tomato, mint, and watercress). I'm so proud because it's the first time I've not killed all my plants. Plus, having these things on hand for cooking saves $$$$$.

Below is a delicious recipe that uses mint, basil, and tomatoes (sent by my friend Emily).

Pasta With Herbed Tomatoes

Mix:
5 tomatoes, chopped (I use 1 or 2 boxes of cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered)
3 cloves garlic, chopoped
1 C fresh basil, chopped
2 T fresh mint, chopped
2 t salt1 t pepper
1/2 t red pepper flakes
1/2 C olive oil

Marinate 2-3 hours or overnight

Cook 1 lb bow tie pasta; drain. Transfer to large bowl and add half the tomato mixture and 1/2 C fresh grated parmesan; mix til cheese begins to melt; add rest of tomato mixture and 1/2 lb fontinella or fontina cheese (can also substitute mozzarella). Stir and served warm or at room temperature.

Note: This recipe has a lot of cheese but if you want to cut back or omit, I think it would still be really good. The marinated tomatoes really make the dish.