Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Self Help

Sorry guys. I know it has been about three weeks since my last post. I keep dropping off the face of the Earth.

The thing is, I have been stressed; that kind of all-encompassing stress that leads to utter lethargy and malaise. Sometimes, writing helps. Sometimes it doesn't. Recently, it hasn't helped much. For that matter, cooking hasn't done much for me lately either. You know how some people get Seasonal Affected Disorder in the winter? For as solar powered as I am, I think I get it in the summer. The heat just zaps the life out of me, I suppose.

Regardless of all that, things are looking up. Despite my disappointingly thwarted effort to move to Sacramento, I am finding a little bit more zen where I am. I've started working out (hurray healthy stress release), I have a pretty good lead on a job that I feel confident will be a step up from what I am currently doing, and I have Tuesdays.

Seriously, Tuesday people (even the one that is far away), you make my week, every week. Like last night, we went swimming. Fully clothed. It was fabulous. Great food is an amazing thing, and we had some great food last night, but great friends make it all worthwhile. So thank you, everyone who knows me, reads me, and helps me, for being my friend.

As a tiny token of my everlasting appreciation, I give you my famous fettucini alfredo recipe. Trust me, it is awesome.

Fettuccini Alfredo

18 ounces fresh fettuccine
1 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cups grated Parmesan
1/2 cups grated Farmer's Cheese
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
Pinch freshly grated nutmeg
Salt and freshly ground white pepper

Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 4 minutes. Drain.

In a large, deep skillet, heat cream until just simmering over medium-low heat. Whisk in butter until fully melted.

Gradually whisk in combined cheeses, stirring constantly until smooth. Stir in spices.

Add pasta to the sauce, and stir to coat.

Enjoy!