Thank goodness this summer's heatwaves have been short lived, several days at most. Last week's weather was delightful as we were able to open the windows and enjoy the gentle summer breeze and cool nights.
 
Recently in our CSA box, we were given long hot peppers. I briefly worked in a butcher shop where they were stuffed with Italian sausage and garnished with shredded cheese. Expanding on this idea, I found a recipe for Stuffed Long Hots on a website called "Mangia with Michele." Her recipe calls for 8-10 long hot peppers (approximately 3/4 to 1 pound), Pecorino Romano cheese, plain breadcrumbs, chopped fresh parsley or basil, ground black pepper, Italian sausage (hot or sweet, your choice), shredded mozzarella, sun dried tomatoes (oil-packed), extra virgin olive oil and marinara or pesto sauce.

​Last week’s quote on the art of eating brought my next thought, the art of cooking. After reading some of the quotes, one says it requires passion and practice. Another, talks about cooking being about people, how it brings us together or an art, but requiring knowing something about techniques and materials. The best one I found which would describe my love of cooking is “Cooking is the gift you give yourself and those you love.”
 
I have an audience of one 98% of the time, my husband. If I make something we adore but don’t want to have the leftovers in our house, I share with our neighbors. They, like my husband, are most appreciative of what I’ve prepared. As another quote stated “Cooking is an opportunity to learn and grow, to try new things and take risks.” What we receive in our CSA box has helped us to try new things. While some people are recipe book collectors and the internet provides access to a myriad of sources in which to cultivate new and exciting