Butternut squash stars in this satisfying casserole. Topped with homemade croutons, this is a perfect comfort dish!

RECIPE (Servings 2-4)

1 butternut squash
3 tbsp maple syrup
1/2 – 1 can Eden Black Beans
1/2 leek, chopped
1/2 sweet onion, chopped
celtic salt, to taste
1/3 loaf sourdough bread
1-2 tbsp Earth Balance Buttery Spread or olive oil

Cut squash into quarters, remove seeds, wrap in foil and bake for 40 minutes/just until soft. Remove the meat of the squash from the skin using a spoon. Mash squash, adding 3 tablespoons of maple syrup.

Sauté chopped onions and leeks in pan for 3 minutes.

Cut bread into little crouton size pieces and toss in melted Earth Balance or olive oil.

Layer the squash, beans, leeks and onions in an oiled 2 quart glass baking dish.

Place  croutons on top.

Bake uncovered for 20 minutes at 350 degrees. Serve piping hot and enjoy!

“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” ~ Virginia Woolf

My dogs and I had a wonderful time at the Farmers Market today in the West End. I’ve eaten two juicy organic apples and a pear already, and am happily glancing at my perfect pumpkin. Hopefully next week we’ll go again…with Tammy & Yoda.

West End Farmers Market
Until October 24th
9am – 2pm Saturdays
1100 Block of Comox Street across from Nelson Park @ Mole Hill

For more info/locations around Vancouver, check out eatlocal.org.

“A thriving household depends on the use of seasonal produce and the application of common sense.”  ~ Olivier de Serres

{photo: Bob.Fornal}

“Do you want me to tell you something really subversive? Love is everything it’s cracked up to be. That’s why people are so cynical about it. It really is worth fighting for, being brave for, risking everything for. And the trouble is, if you don’t risk anything, you risk even more.” ~ Erica Jong

{via: Eylem}

I took a trip to Commercial Drive for lunch with a friend at Bandidas Taqueria.

Bandidas dishes up vegetarian and vegan Mexican food in a casual, diner like atmosphere. I ordered an Hibiscus Cocktail and the Ronny Russell Tacos. The handmade corn tortillas came loaded with yams, onions, guacamole, black beans, purple cabbage, green salsa and pumpkin seeds. The unusual mix of ingredients tasted delightfully delicious together. I sampled my friend’s meal, the Vegan Hicks, as well. The tofu scramble was the yummiest I’ve ever tried.

This is a down-to-earth and inexpensive place offering brunch, lunch and dinner daily. I will definitely be stopping by again next time I’m on Commercial Drive.

“Barriga llena, corazón contento.” ~ Proverb

{photo: Noël Zia Lee}

“I think I could turn and live with animals, they are
so placid and self-contained,
I stand and look at them long and long.” ~ Walt Whitman

{video: Ray Paunovich}