Why spend the time?

I have often been told "its not worth the time and effort to cook. It is easier to grab something on the run. While I love the occasional eat and run, I believe our relationships will blossom and grow into something specil when we stop saying "Why Spend the time!"

Meals offer us opportunities each day to slow down, treasure the people around us, and make them feel special. With a little care, we can create beautiful moments around the table to share hurts and hopes, fumbles and faith.



The pictures are from our families trip to Israel last summer.

While the one may be fuzzy the Empty Bottle Moment is not!

Here is an easy recipe you can make in advance and put together at the last minute:

Marinade for the chicken
½ cup fresh lemon juice
¼ cup olive oil or Canola oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 boneless, skinless, whole chicken breasts

Vinaigrette
3 tbs. red wine vinegar
1 tbs. balsamic vinegar
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt, freshly ground black pepper and sugar
to taste
2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 day old loaf of Italian bread, crusts removed and cut into 1” cubes
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 large red onion, thinly sliced
1 large English cucumber thinly sliced
1 small fennel bulb trimmed and thinly sliced
½ cup fresh basil, sliced in ribbons
1 tbs. fresh rosemary, minced
Olives1 ½ cup (2 oz) shaved Parmesan cheese

1. Whisk the lemon juice, oil, salt and pepper together
2. Add the chicken and marinate at room temp. for 20 mins.
3. Grill on the barbecue or broil for about 8 mins on each side or until done
4. Cut the chicken into diagonal slices and set aside
5. In a small bowl whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients, except for the oil,
6. Gradually whisk in the olive oil and when complete set aside
7. Mix the bread cubes with 2 tbs. of the vinaigrette
8. Add the tomatoes, onion, cucumber, fennel, basil, olives and rosemary; mix well
9. Add the remaining vinaigrette and cheese and allow to stand for ½ -1 hour

When ready to serve add the chicken and mix well................

Grab an opportunity to spend time preparing and sharing a meal........It will be worth it!