Best of Summer Sandwiches

These sandwiches are simple and delicious. The ingredients can easily be changed slightly to make delicious variations. There are two different sandwiches here- one with mayonnaise, avocado, tomato and basil and one with melted brie, avocado, tomato and basil. They're especially tasty at the height of tomato season. (Don't worry- the tomatoes pictured are heirloom, not sad pasty tomatoes)

Ingredients:

• Pain au Levain
• Tomato
• Basil
• Avocado
• Brie or Mayonnaise (other tasty ideas- fresh mozzarella or goat cheese)
• salt
• black or cayenne pepper
  
• Optional: Coppa or Prosciutto

Notes:

1. I like my sandwiches toasty- if I'm going to melt the cheese I broil or toast the bread first and then stick it under the broiler again with the cheese on top. This keeps the bread from getting soggy.
2. I'm not going to write directions because sandwich assembly is fairly self explanatory.
   

'Cause Some Days You Just Feel Lazy

Refrigerated or frozen raviolis/tortellinis, jarred sauce and sauteed green beans are quick, easy and delicious for those days when you don't have time or don't want to put in the effort to make a more complex meal.

Ingredients:

• one package of your favorite refrigerated or frozen raviolis/tortellinis
  
• a jar of marinara sauce
• green beans
• rosemary
• salt
• granulated garlic
• cayenne pepper
• white pepper
• olive oil
  

Directions for Green Beans:

1. Prepare green beans by breaking or cutting off the ends
2. Place a frying pan over medium heat and pour in just enough water to cover the bottom
3. Put the green beans in the frying pan and let the water come to a boil and steam the green beans just until they turn bright green
4. Pour out any excess water
5. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan
6. Salt and rosemary to taste
7. Sautee to preferred doneness

Directions for Sauce:

1. Pour sauce into a sauce pan and heat over low heat
2. Season with granulated garlic, rosemary, cayenne pepper and white pepper (or your own favorite seasonings) to taste
3. Bring to a boil stirring regularly

Follow package instructions for raviolis/tortellini